fast growing ground cover plants

Why Choose Fast Growing Ground Cover Plants?

Fast growing ground cover plants are ideal for gardeners who need quick results. These vigorous spreaders rapidly blanket the soil, helping prevent weed growth and retaining vital moisture in your garden beds. They’re perfect for stabilising hillsides, tackling difficult-to-mow spaces, or softening the edges of pathways. With a wide range of foliage colours, flowering types, and growth habits available, you can easily find a ground cover to match your garden’s aesthetic while solving landscaping challenges.

Top Fast Growing Ground Cover Plants for New Zealand Gardens

Several exceptional fast growing ground cover plants thrive in New Zealand conditions. Among native choices, Pratia angulata is a standout, offering glossy green leaves and masses of dainty white star-shaped flowers in spring and summer. This ground cover grows quickly in both sun and partial shade, making it a reliable option for covering tricky spots or underplanting larger shrubs.

For gardeners after a touch of colour and texture, variegated options like Ajuga reptans variegata deliver attractive foliage—vivid green leaves highlighted with creamy white—that spreads swiftly. Ajugas are renowned for their hardiness, and gaps in your border quickly disappear with Ajuga 'Jungle Beauty', producing deep blue flower spikes above dark, glossy leaves. If you need to cover even larger areas, Ajuga 'Catlins Giant' provides bold foliage and spreading power for speedy ground coverage in full or part shade.

For a more architectural look, Westringia Low Horizon offers neat, grey-green foliage and small white flowers. This fast growing ground cover plant is ideal for coastal gardens or windy sites, as it’s naturally tolerant of poor soils, salt spray, and exposure—while remaining compact and manageable.

Tips for Establishing Fast Growing Ground Cover Plants

To get the most from your fast growing ground cover plants, start by preparing the soil thoroughly—clear weeds and add compost to promote healthy root growth. Plant at the recommended spacing for each species to ensure rapid coverage and water regularly until established. Mulching between plants helps retain moisture and stops weeds from competing while your ground cover is filling in. Pruning or pinching back tips encourages denser growth and a tidier appearance.

Ground Covers for Every Garden Situation

Whether you’re covering a slope, brightening shady corners, or softening paved areas, fast growing ground cover plants are a smart solution for Kiwi gardens. With beautiful foliage, reliable performance, and low upkeep, you’ll enjoy a vibrant, lush carpet in record time. Browse our collection and consider standout options like Pratia angulata, Ajuga reptans variegata, and Westringia Low Horizon to transform your landscape quickly and with stunning results.