Groundcover refers to plant material, both living and dead such as grasses, plants, mulch, and plant residues that cover and protect the soil surface. It plays an essential role in maintaining healthy landscapes, especially during dry periods.

One important benefit of groundcover is reducing soil erosion. By covering the surface, groundcover protects the soil from being carried away by wind and water. It also improves water infiltration, allowing rainfall to soak into the soil instead of running off. At the same time, groundcover reduces evaporation, helping soil retain moisture for longer periods.

Groundcover also helps regulate soil temperature. Covered soil stays cooler, protecting plant roots and soil organisms from extreme heat. As plant material breaks down, it adds organic matter to the soil, improving soil structure and supporting nutrient cycling.

Groundcover is a key factor in drought resilience, enabling landscapes and ecosystems to cope with limited water, adapt to dry conditions, and recover more quickly when rainfall returns by maintaining soil condition and moisture. Overall, it is vital for protecting soil, conserving water, and supporting drought resilience and recovery.

How to increase groundcover on farm

Adjust stocking rates so grazing pressure does not remove too much pasture, allowing plants time to recover.
Use rotational grazing to rest paddocks between grazing events and maintain continuous plant growth.
Grow a mixture of pasture species, including perennials and species suited to different seasons, to keep cover year-round.
Avoid overgrazing during dry periods by moving stock earlier and protecting vulnerable paddocks. Use livestock containment areas if needed.
Retain crop residues after harvest, so that stubble and plant material protect the soil surface.
Use minimum tillage or no-till practices to reduce soil disturbance and preserve existing cover.
Establish cover crops to keep living plants in the soil and improve soil protection.
Control weeds in a way that still maintains soil cover rather than leaving bare ground.
Improve soil fertility where needed so pastures grow more vigorously and maintain better coverage.
Manage erosion-prone areas carefully by encouraging permanent vegetation cover such as perennial grasses or native plants. Using old hay or mulch can protect bare ground while plants establish.