The Mossy Ground Cover That's Perfect For Your Rocky Garden Path

Beautiful rocky paths can bring your whole garden design together and transform your landscaping. You may find that there's an abrupt break between the soft green of your plants and the harsh stones of the pathway though. Allowing plants to grow onto and through your path can help soften this and make your garden even more whimsical. It's just a matter of finding low growing plants that can thrive on your rocky path and handle a bit of foot traffic. This is where Scotch moss (Sagina subulata 'Aurea') comes in.

Scotch moss and Irish moss are the same species, but Scotch moss is the common name for yellow foliage varieties, while Irish moss refers to green-leafed Sagina subulata plants. Both are perfect for growing on and around pathways. Scotch moss can easily thrive under those rocky conditions. And, because it shouldn't grow taller than an inch or 2, you shouldn't have to worry about it blocking pathways or getting in the way. It will even bloom with charming white flowers, adding additional beauty to your garden.

Native to Europe, Scotch moss is perennial in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8 and can be divided as it spreads to create more plants for along your pathway. Despite the name, Scotch moss isn't really a moss though, so don't expect it to thrive in the same conditions moss would. Instead, Scotch moss grows best in full to part sun. You should also make sure to plant your Scotch moss in spots that are moist but well-draining. 

Whether you use them to fill in stone walkway cracks, grow the plants between your pavers, or just let them trail across a gravel path, Scotch moss plants are ideal for adding softness and beauty to your landscaping. This plants doesn't just help make your garden paths more aesthetically pleasing either, it can also crowd out pesky weeds that might otherwise grow there. Even better, Scotch and Irish moss aren't often bothered by deer, so your ground cover isn't likely to get nibbled away.