What makes Outsidepride the best ground cover seeds? Emerald Falls review insights

Description

Testing Dichondra Emerald Falls Seeds in My Garden

I decided to give these seeds a shot for a small patch in my backyard. The aim was to replace the patchy, unattractive grass with something low-maintenance yet vibrant. My neighborhood is full of Bermuda grass, which I’ve always found impractical and irritating. This felt like the perfect opportunity to experiment with a ground cover that promised lush, emerald-green foliage. Spoiler alert: It’s been a mixed bag.

Germination and Planting Process

Starting with the basics, I followed the instructions on the packet religiously. The seeds were easy to handle, and the blue coating made them visible against the soil—a small feature I genuinely appreciated. I prepped the soil thoroughly, mixing in some compost to improve drainage and adding topsoil for better texture.

The germination process was surprisingly quick—within five days, small green sprouts appeared. I monitored the moisture levels closely, watering twice daily for short periods to keep the soil just damp enough. However, I noticed that uneven watering could lead to patchy growth. Some spots thrived while others lagged behind, despite my efforts to distribute the seeds evenly.

Growth and Maintenance

Over the next few weeks, the seeds began to fill in the area. The foliage was indeed lush and a rich green, living up to its promise. I loved how soft and cool the ground cover felt underfoot; even my toddler took to running around barefoot on it. However, I quickly learned that this plant does not handle heavy foot traffic well. Walking over the same area repeatedly caused visible damage, which was disappointing since I hoped for a more robust ground cover.

One thing I noticed was its growth habit: the leaves grew larger and taller in shaded spots, while they remained smaller and closer to the ground in full sun. This variability was aesthetically interesting but also posed a challenge in maintaining a uniform look.

Seasonal Behavior and Climate Challenges

Living in a hot climate, I found the drought tolerance to be somewhat overstated. During peak summer temperatures, the foliage began to thin out noticeably. Watering became a daily chore, as the plant seemed to require deep and consistent hydration to survive the extreme heat. I suspect that planting in the fall or early spring would have allowed the roots to establish better before summer hit.

On the bright side, it held up well during the cooler months, staying green and vibrant while Bermuda grass in neighboring yards turned an unsightly brown.

Pros

• Low Maintenance in Cooler Weather: Once established, it needed minimal mowing and watering.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The deep green color and soft texture are genuinely attractive.
• Year-Round Growth: Unlike some grasses, this maintained its greenery throughout the year.
• Eco-Friendly Alternative: It’s a great choice for those wanting to avoid chemical fertilizers, as it thrives in well-prepared soil.

Cons

• Not Suited for Heavy Traffic: Even light walking caused some damage over time.
• Water Dependency in Summer: It required frequent watering during hot months.
• Shade vs. Sun Growth: Varied leaf size and height depending on sunlight exposure.
• Initial Effort: Preparing the soil and ensuring proper drainage took a lot of work upfront.

Comparison to Competitors

When compared to Bermuda grass, Dichondra Emerald Falls offers a softer, less itchy surface and year-round greenery. However, Bermuda grass is undoubtedly more resilient to foot traffic and extreme heat. On the flip side, clover seeds, another alternative, often outshine Dichondra in terms of durability and nitrogen-fixing properties that benefit the soil. Clover also grows faster and tends to be more forgiving of less-than-ideal conditions.

Dichondra, however, scores points for its unique cascading growth, which can also be used decoratively in containers or hanging baskets. It’s a more versatile option if you’re looking for something beyond a traditional lawn replacement.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

The cost of these seeds is reasonable compared to similar ground covers. The initial investment in soil preparation and consistent watering might make it less appealing to those on a budget or with limited time. That said, if you’re looking for an aesthetic upgrade for a small area that won’t see much foot traffic, these seeds are worth a try. Just be prepared for some trial and error to get it thriving.

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