Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) Practice Exam

Groundcovers are used most frequently in areas requiring minimal maintenance. Which practice is an example of this?

1. The planting of vines on a steep, rocky hillside

2. The planting of turf grass

3. The planting of groundcovers in an area with water accumulation

4. The planting of groundcover in an annual bed to reduce weed growth

The correct answer is: The planting of vines on a steep, rocky hillside

Groundcovers are indeed ideal for areas that require minimal maintenance, particularly because they can establish a dense mat that suppresses weed growth, controls erosion, and often reduces the need for mowing or additional watering. Choosing to plant vines on a steep, rocky hillside exemplifies this practice because vines are capable of clinging to surfaces and can enhance slope stability while minimizing soil erosion. Their ability to thrive in challenging terrains also means lower maintenance requirements since they adapt well to the conditions of steep landscapes. In contrast, planting turf grass generally demands regular mowing, fertilization, and watering, making it much less suitable for a low-maintenance landscape. Planting groundcovers in areas with water accumulation can be beneficial, but it also requires careful species selection to ensure that the chosen plants can tolerate wet conditions, which may add to maintenance concerns. Lastly, while groundcovers can be used in an annual bed to reduce weed growth, this situation contradicts the essence of minimal maintenance, as annuals typically require significant care throughout their growing season, including watering, fertilization, and replanting each year. Hence, planting vines on a hillside stands out as the best example of using groundcovers in a low-maintenance context.