I'm trying to start cultivating a shady plot of dirt where nothing currently grows. The soil is quite compacted, and I think the first thing we need is a green mulch or cover crop that will do well in a shady area. I did dig in some half finished compost this spring, mostly because we hadn't yet acquired our second bin and the first was overflowing. So there are some spots where there's a lot of organic material in the soil.
Wondering then: what's a good green mulch for shade?
White clover is a good green manure for shade and will grow in low nitrogen, compacted soil. Generally, compacted soil is lacking in calcium and will need lime or gypsum.
My favorite ground cover to use is Vinca, but it is invasive so I would need to be contained, either by hand trimming or spraying the edges as it encroaches unwanted areas. If you mow over it, each tiny cutting has the ability to root, in your lawn. Ivy would work, without the invasive trait; you could cut it back without collecting the cuttings. Coriscan mint?
http://thebloomingauction.com/uploaded/radD3ACBCORSICAN%20MINT.jpg
