What to Plant Between Pavers

Are you looking to add a touch of greenery to your paved patio or walkway without compromising its structure? Planting between pavers can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space while providing environmental benefits. But what can you plant in between pavers? Let's explore some suitable options and guide you through the process.

First, it's crucial to understand that planting between pavers requires careful consideration of the plants' size, growth rate, and root system. The last thing you want is for roots to lift or crack your pavers. With that in mind, let's delve into the world of pavers and plants.

Low-Growing Ground Covers

Ground covers are excellent choices for planting between pavers. They grow low to the ground, preventing weeds, and require minimal maintenance. Here are two popular options:

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Thyme is a hardy, low-growing herb with small, fragrant leaves. It forms a dense mat, suppressing weeds, and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. Thyme prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Its shallow root system makes it an ideal choice for planting between pavers.

To plant thyme between pavers, create a small hole in the joint, place a thyme plant or seed, and gently backfill with soil. Water thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist until established.

Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia 'Aurea')

Creeping Jenny is a vibrant, low-growing perennial with round, golden-green leaves. It produces small, yellow flowers in summer and spreads quickly to form a lush, weed-suppressing carpet. Creeping Jenny thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers consistently moist soil.

Plant Creeping Jenny between pavers in the same manner as thyme. Its rapid growth rate means you'll see results in no time, filling in the spaces between pavers and creating a beautiful, green tapestry.

Small, Slow-Growing Perennials

Perennials are excellent choices for planting between pavers as they return year after year, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Opt for small, slow-growing varieties to prevent root intrusion into your pavers. Here are two suitable options:

Dianthus (Dianthus spp.)

Dianthus are charming, low-growing perennials with fragrant, fleshy leaves and clusters of colorful flowers. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Dianthus have a shallow root system, making them an excellent choice for planting between pavers.

Plant dianthus between pavers, ensuring the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) is at ground level. Water thoroughly and provide consistent moisture until established.

Creeping Speedwell (Veronica repens)

Creeping speedwell is a low-growing perennial with small, round leaves and clusters of tiny, blue-violet flowers. It forms a dense mat, suppressing weeds, and thrives in full sun to partial shade. Creeping speedwell prefers well-drained soil and is drought-tolerant once established.

Plant creeping speedwell between pavers using the same method as dianthus. Its slow growth rate and shallow root system make it an ideal choice for planting between pavers.

Incorporating plants between pavers can transform your outdoor space into a lush, inviting oasis. By selecting the right plants and providing proper care, you can create a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape that complements your paved surfaces. So go ahead, embrace your green thumb, and enjoy the process of bringing life to your pavers.