I've got a front yard filled with white landscaping rocks, and I've battled weeds that just keep coming back, no matter what I do. I laid down some landscaping fabric, but the weeds broke through, especially after the recent NorCal rains. I've always loved ice plants and heard they're great ground cover and easy to grow. Do I need to remove the rocks and the weed barrier fabric to plant them properly? Can I just add topsoil on top of the rocks and hope the roots will find their way?
2 Answers
Ice plants are pretty tough and can manage in not-so-great conditions compared to other succulents. You can go ahead and just add topsoil over the rocks and plant them right in. They should spread nicely as you let them! Just a heads-up, they're considered invasive in some parts of California, but they do look really nice when they bloom. Good luck with your yard!
Thanks for the tips! Yeah, I'm aware that ice plants can struggle with freezing temps. I grew up seeing them in Southern California, but I haven't really noticed them around the SF Bay Area much due to their invasive nature. Definitely going to think of them like a rhizome plant; easy to pull out if needed. Just tired of all the weeds, really!
Totally get that! Weeds can be such a pain. If the area is just going to be ice plant, you might manage it better. Just keep an eye on them and you’ll be fine!
Just be cautious! I've heard that ice plants don't handle freezing well, especially since they're an invasive here. But as long as you cover them on those occasional freezing nights, you should be good. Just make sure they're not able to creep into your neighbors' yards!