Best Ground Covers to Grow in North Dakota
North Dakota spans USDA Zones 3–5, typically Zone 4. We've broken out 23 ground cover varieties by zone — pick your zone below or find the right varieties for your specific part of the state.
Varieties
23
for North Dakota
USDA
Zones 3–5
120–155 days season
Beginner
17
easy to grow
Heirloom
2
heritage varieties
North Dakota in USDA Zones 3–5
North Dakota spans Zones 3–5. Variety lists below are organized by zone — start with your zone for the most accurate recommendations.
Growing Ground Covers in North Dakota
Zone 4 gardeners face unique challenges when selecting ground covers, but the payoff is worth the effort. With winter temperatures dipping to -30°F and a relatively short 135-day growing season, you need hardy varieties that can establish quickly and survive harsh conditions. The key is choosing plants that not only tolerate extreme cold but actually thrive in it, often emerging stronger and more vigorous after winter dormancy.
Successful zone 4 ground covers share several traits: deep root systems that anchor against frost heave, low-growing habits that benefit from snow insulation, and the ability to spread efficiently during the compressed growing season. Look for varieties that offer multiple seasons of interest – spring flowers, summer foliage, or interesting winter texture – to maximize your investment in plants that may take a full season to establish.
The ground covers listed here have proven themselves in zone 4 conditions, many actually preferring the distinct seasonal changes and cold winter chill hours. From the reliable spreading habit of Creeping Phlox to the bulletproof nature of Sedum 'Dragon's Blood,' these varieties will give you dependable coverage even in challenging microclimates like exposed slopes or areas with poor drainage that freeze and thaw repeatedly.
Zone 4 Ground Covers for North Dakota★ Most of ND
20 varieties · Last frost May 10 · 135-day season
Zone 3 Ground Covers for North Dakota
10 varieties · Last frost May 15 · 120-day season
Zone 5 Ground Covers for North Dakota
23 varieties · Last frost April 30 · 155-day season
Zone 4 Growing Tips for North Dakota
Timing is critical in zone 4 – plant ground covers in late spring after your May 10th average last frost date, giving them maximum time to establish before the September 25th first frost arrives. However, don't rush to plant immediately after the frost-free date passes; soil temperature matters more than air temperature for root development. Wait until soil consistently reaches 50°F, usually late May to early June, before transplanting container-grown ground covers.
Fall planting can work for the hardiest varieties like Creeping Juniper and Vinca Minor, but only if done by early August to allow 6-8 weeks of root establishment before frost. Focus on soil preparation in zone 4 – improve drainage to prevent winter root rot and frost heave, but maintain moisture retention for the intense summer heat that often accompanies short growing seasons. A 2-3 inch layer of compost worked into planting areas makes an enormous difference in establishment success.
Mulching strategy differs in zone 4 compared to warmer zones. Apply a light mulch after planting to retain summer moisture, but pull it away from plant crowns in late fall to prevent rodent damage and ice buildup. Many zone 4 ground covers benefit from snow cover as natural insulation, so avoid excessive fall cleanup that might reduce snow accumulation around your plants.