
With the weather warming up , green-thumbed enthusiasts are stepping up their efforts to cultivate vibrant and thriving gardens . Experts are advising Brits to consider incorporating ground cover plants into their outdoor spaces, not only for aesthetic appeal but also for their practical benefits. Ground covers serve as a natural weed suppressant while acting as a protective layer to maintain soil moisture and nutrients.
With these advantages in mind, gardening specialists recently highlighted their top choices for ground covers on the Middle Sized Garden YouTube channel, singling out Brunnera macrophylla as a standout option. Renowned plant expert Tim Ingram praised the perennial, describing it as “one of the best spring ground covers” available to gardeners. “If I had to choose just one, it would be Brunnera macrophylla,” Ingram told GB News .
“This perennial forget-me-not is incredibly resilient, spreading easily and thriving across garden beds. It blooms consistently for months, typically from mid-March to mid-May, seamlessly blending with other seasonal plants.” He further explained how Brunnera macrophylla complements early spring bloomers such as snowdrops and hellebores, creating a dynamic and evolving display as the season progresses.
March is widely recognized as a prime time to plant ground covers like hardy perennials, giving them a head start before the onset of summer’s warmer temperatures. However, experts caution gardeners to check that the soil is neither frozen nor overly saturated before planting. According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), Brunnera macrophylla is a deciduous perennial featuring large, heart-shaped silver leaves accentuated with green veining.
This plant not only enhances garden aesthetics but also provides essential functions such as moisture retention and erosion control, making it a valuable choice for low-maintenance landscapes. The RHS also notes that Brunnera macrophylla thrives in moderately fertile, humus-rich soil that is moist yet well-drained. The plant's delicate blue flowers add a charming touch to spring gardens, further solidifying its reputation as an excellent ground cover.
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