Groundcover plants are low-growing spreading plants used to cover bare soil, reduce weeds, prevent erosion, soften pathways, fill landscape spaces, and create attractive living carpets. Groundcovers range from flowering perennials and creeping herbs to ornamental grasses and drought-tolerant spreading plants.
Groundcovers offer both ornamental beauty and practical landscape benefits. Many species spread naturally to create dense coverage while requiring less maintenance than traditional turf grass.
Groundcover seeds may be direct sown outdoors or started indoors depending on species. Prepare the planting area by removing weeds and loosening the soil surface.
Many small seeds should be lightly covered or surface sown.
Groundcover species vary widely in light preferences. Some thrive in full sun, while others are adapted to partial shade or woodland conditions.
Good drainage is important for most spreading groundcovers.
Water regularly during germination and establishment. Once mature, many groundcovers become drought tolerant and require less supplemental watering.
Proper spacing allows plants to spread naturally and form dense coverage over time. Fast-spreading species fill open areas more quickly.
Many spreading plants help stabilize soil on slopes and banks by:
Flowering groundcovers often attract:
Groundcovers are useful in:
Explore Seedman's groundcover seed collection including creeping flowers, low-growing perennials, spreading herbs, drought-tolerant plants, and flowering carpet plants.
Shop All Groundcover Plant Seeds at Seedman.com
To grow groundcover plants successfully, provide appropriate sunlight, well-drained soil, moderate moisture during establishment, and adequate spacing for spreading growth. Groundcovers reward gardeners with attractive low-maintenance landscapes, erosion control, pollinator support, and beautiful living carpets of foliage and flowers.