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Ground cover

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  • Sorry, yes, I have a problem with a cat using my raised bed as it’s litter tray. In this bed, I have an established Eucalyptus tree, It’s around this area the cat likes to deposit. I was wondering if there was a fast growing ground cover, that likes shade from the  eucalyptus, 
    In that side of the bed, I have a fern, a Heuchera and geum. 
    At present, I have stapled green nettting over the top. The cat even messes on top of that 😱
  • B3B3 Posts: 27,443
    edited April 2022
    Vinca might take a year to establish. After that, there's no stopping it😒 but it's better than catshtttt
    In London. Keen but lazy.

  • In my garden, I have a high tech defender, which hurts my grown daughters ears & so many plastic spike strips, nothing seems to work 
  • B3B3 Posts: 27,443
    Have You got a holly bush? Dried holly leaves are very sharp. Sprinkle them about and they might go elsewhere.

    In London. Keen but lazy.
  • AnniDAnniD Posts: 12,539
    edited April 2022
    Does the epimedium need moist soil though @Woodgreen ? I'd personally be inclined towards the Vinca, it's quite tough and fast growing, and as long as it was watered while it's establishing it should be okay, and the moist soil might deter the cats. Bear in mind the eucalyptus will take moisture from the soil.
    Vinca can get away, but if you can keep an eye on it, it might well be what you're looking for :) .
  • WoodgreenWoodgreen Posts: 1,273
    @AnniD Here it grows in both very dry ground close to tree trunks and in richer, leafier soil with more moisture. Not as quick as vinca perhaps ( I've not grown vinca) but definitely makes solid hard mats, with no scratchable soil for cats.
  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,099
    I'd go with the vinca. It spreads fairly quickly, - or Ajuga [bugle] which is also fast growing. Or a combination. 
    ..and yes- netting or anything else doesn't work @sharon.maderson , including bits of jaggy plants, bamboo hoops, canes, metal spikes.... the list is endless. It never stopped any of them here.I used a water scarecrow, but they're no use in winter because they freeze, and you have to remember they're on so that you don't cross their path  :#
    I've been trying the Voss 2000 sonic thing, and it seems to be working. It was recommended by another forum member. I've just got 2 more for the front garden and another position in the back. 
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • B3B3 Posts: 27,443
    That's an idea. Plant both and see which one wins and which you prefer if they both do well
    In London. Keen but lazy.
  • Thank you for your advice 😄
    I’m off to Gardeners World live, in June. See what takes my eye there
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