Evaluation of Ground Covers for Use in Guam Landscapes

A collection of low growing native and exotic shrubs, forbs and grasses are being evaluated for an extended period for use as low maintenance ground covers in Guam landscapes. Plantings consist of nine plants of the same species planted in a gradient of three plant densities with three plants at each density. At the time of planting, water and fertilizer were applied but will be reduced as the plants establish and mature. Plants are first screened for aesthetic growth characteristics. The plant’s aesthetic characteristics are rated 1-5 on rating scale. Taxa are also screened for functional criteria including risk of invasiveness. Data collection includes measurements and ratings of survival, seasonal development, dates of flowering, and season-long aesthetic value assessment.