The high cost of installing ground covers is often offset by the eventual savings in:

The choice regarding reduced maintenance being the most significant savings from installing ground covers is correct because ground covers can significantly lower the amount of labor and resources needed to manage a landscape. Once established, ground covers require less frequent mowing, weeding, and fertilizer applications compared to traditional lawn grasses or bare soil, which can lead to considerable long-term savings in both time and money. This reduction in maintenance also means that homeowners can enjoy a more manageable landscape, allowing them to spend less time on upkeep and more on enjoyment.

While improved aesthetics, increased property value, and water conservation may also be benefits of using ground covers, they do not address the specific aspect of maintenance costs in the same direct way. Improved aesthetics can enhance the visual appeal, and while that is valuable, it doesn't directly influence the cost savings aspect as strongly as reduced maintenance. Similarly, increased property value can result from aesthetic improvements, but it is not guaranteed and does not translate as directly to reduced ongoing costs. Lastly, water conservation is indeed a benefit in many cases, especially with drought-tolerant ground covers, but the immediate and clear savings derived from maintenance reduction is more straightforward and measurable.