Dichondra, the versatile lawn substitute – Sue McDougall

One of the most versatile lawn substitutes is a flat groundcover that will grow in a shady position is dichondra. This low growing plant forms a thick mat and is ideal for growing on shady sides of the house.

Dichondra will grow between lawn varieties and while at times the colour is different to the lawn varieties, it forms a lush green cover and helps to fill in the spaces. It looks fantastic over winter and is ideally suited to plant between couch varieties in shadier positions where the couch tends to die back in the cooler weather.

The most successful way to grow dichondra is to sow it in seed trays in a layer of potting mix. Then, once the plant is established, split it up by gently tearing away small pieces with the roots attached and transplant it into well-improved soil. Keep it moist until it is well established and remember to not let it dry out in summer.

 

Written by Sue McDougall, a qualified horticulturalist and experienced garden centre owner who grew up in the WA wheatbelt and has had experience in gardening throughout the entire state.  You may know Sue as the garden expert on 6PR radio and by her many TV appearances.