Quick answer
Ground cover plants are low-growing plants that spread to cover bare soil with dense stems and leaves, used in beds, on slopes and in shade where grass is hard to grow or hard to mow.
They hold soil, slow weeds and need less care once established. Most cannot be walked on, and a few spread so hard they become invasive.
Quick facts
The key facts about Ground Cover Plants, with sources:
- Height
- Generally less than 24 inches (Colorado State); about an inch to four feet across all types (Illinois) 35
- Spacing
- Most are spaced 6 inches to 2 feet apart (UNH) 2
- Time to cover
- Spaced to cover by the end of the third growing season (Clemson); one to two seasons to establish (Illinois) 13
- Foot traffic
- Unlike grass, most ground covers cannot be walked on (Clemson) 1
- Weed control
- Clear perennial weeds first; Illinois calls this the most critical step 3
Key takeaways
- A ground cover is chosen for a job: cover soil, stop erosion, fill shade or replace grass where grass struggles. Clemson lists steep banks, shady areas under trees and very wet or very dry sites 1.
- Weeds decide the outcome. Illinois says eliminating perennial weeds during bed preparation is the most critical step 3.
- Most ground covers cannot be walked on, unlike grass 1. Plan paths or stepping stones.
- Some spread too well. UNH calls some groundcovers extremely aggressive and lists several that its state bans or watches 2. Invasive status is set state by state.
- Expect a slow start. Clemson spaces plants to cover by the end of the third growing season, and Illinois allows one to two seasons for full establishment 13.
A plant chosen to cover the ground
University of New Hampshire Extension defines groundcovers as low-growing plants that cover the soil with many stems and leaves. In gardening, the term usually means vigorous perennials used in planting beds 2. Illinois Extension says properly cared for ground covers provide dense soil cover, retard weed growth and prevent soil erosion 3.
The group is wide. Illinois says ground covers range from about an inch to four feet tall, can be woody or herbaceous, clumping or running, and evergreen or deciduous.
It also notes that turfgrass is the most widely planted groundcover 3. Colorado State uses a narrower rule of thumb: plants generally less than 24 inches tall that spread readily 5.
This page explains the term. It does not list the best plants for your yard, because the right plant depends on light, moisture, soil and your state’s invasive-species rules. See sun exposure for light, and our planting and garden beds guide for planting help.
How a ground cover bed fills in
Spreading. Colorado State describes plants that spread by rhizomes, stolons, offsets or tip layering 5. A rhizome is an underground stem. A stolon is a runner above ground. Spreaders knit together to close the bed.
Weed suppression. UNH says ground covers suppress weeds, so mulch does not need to be the main feature of a bed, and they reduce nutrient leaching during heavy rain and soil erosion on slopes 2.
Until the plants meet, weeds and mulch do the work. Illinois suggests 1 to 2 inches of mulch to reduce weeds and keep soil moist 3. UNH says to apply two to three inches of coarse organic mulch between plants 2.
Time. Plants start small. Clemson says to space them so the bed is covered by the end of the third growing season, and that a staggered row pattern gives the fastest cover 1. Illinois says to allow at least one to two growing seasons for full establishment 3.
Soil work first. Colorado State calls soil preparation the key to successful ground cover establishment and suggests working in organic matter before planting 5. See landscape bed preparation.
- ClearRemove perennial weeds and grass; leave the bed idle 2 to 3 weeks and clear regrowth
- Prepare soilTest the soil, add organic matter and loosen the bed
- PlantSpring or fall, in a staggered pattern
- Mulch and waterMulch between plants; check moisture often in the first season
- Fill inOne to three growing seasons, depending on plant and spacing
Ground covers grouped four ways
| Grouping | What it means | Source | Watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| By height | Generally under 24 inches (Colorado State); an inch to four feet (Illinois) | Colorado State, Illinois 53 | Sources draw the line differently |
| By how they spread | Running types close a bed; clumping, non-spreading types can serve as hedging, traffic barriers or edging for walks | Illinois 3 | Spreaders may leave the bed |
| By leaf habit | Evergreen types look the same all year. Flowering and fruiting types usually need more upkeep | Colorado State 5 | Herbaceous types die back and leave bare soil in winter |
| By light | New Hampshire’s sun examples include moss phlox, creeping juniper, stonecrop, lamb’s ear, bearberry and thyme. Its shade or part-shade examples include Allegheny spurge, European wild ginger, foam flower and Japanese pachysandra | UNH 2 | One state’s list; check yours |
| By job | Erosion control on banks, shade under trees, spots where roots block grass, and very wet or very dry sites | Clemson 1 | No plant does every job |
A ground cover is not a lawn substitute for walking
Clemson says that unlike grass, most groundcover plants cannot be walked on 1. If you need foot traffic, plan a path or ask a nursery which plant tolerates it.
Example: matching three problem spots to a ground cover job
The three spots are invented. The notes come from the cited pages and describe what the sources say a ground cover can do there. They are not plant picks.
| Spot (example) | What the sources suggest | Source | Check first |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunny slope above a salted road | A ground cover that tolerates salt spray and hot sun, controls runoff and erosion, and spreads on its own; Penn State names common juniper as very drought tolerant on rocky slopes | Penn State 4 | Drainage and slope; large grading needs a pro |
| Dry shade under a tree | Ground covers can replace grass where tree roots block it; Clemson lists shady areas under trees | Clemson 1 | Light hours and root competition |
| Narrow strip too hard to mow | UNH lists lawn alternative areas that are hard to mow | UNH 2 | Foot traffic, edging and spread |
For each spot the same questions apply: how much light, how much water, how much foot traffic, and which plants are invasive in your state. Penn State advises leaving the cleared site unplanted for about 2 to 3 weeks so perennial weeds can regrow and be removed 4.
Where the term shows up: lawn replacement, bids and rebates
Lawn replacement. Ground cover is often offered as a lawn alternative. Our lawn renovation and artificial turf pages cover the other routes.
Turf rebates. Some water districts pay to replace turf with approved plants, and rules decide what counts. See turf rebate programs and the turf rebate tool.
Bids. A bid should state plant name, container size, spacing, mulch and how weeds are cleared. See our estimates guide.
Association rules. An HOA may limit what replaces a lawn. See HOA landscaping research.
Warranties. Read plant warranties to see how a failed plant is handled.
What ground covers do well, and where they fall short
What they can do
Limits and open points
Regional advice. Clemson states that all its recommendations are for South Carolina conditions and may not apply elsewhere 1. UNH, Penn State and Colorado State write for their own states. Fertilizer, herbicide and planting times differ.
Spacing numbers vary. UNH gives 6 inches to 2 feet for most groundcovers 2. The UGA article gives 4 to 5 feet for junipers 6. We give no single distance.
Chemical advice is label-bound. Colorado State and UNH both mention herbicides for clearing perennial weeds. We do not give products or rates. EPA says it is a violation of federal law to use a pesticide inconsistent with its labeling 7. See lawn chemical safety.
Synthetic cloth. Penn State says plastic or synthetic landscape cloth is not recommended on top of or under the soil, because it can increase erosion and runoff and become a problem if exposed or if weeds grow through it 4.
No lifespan or survival rates. None of the pages we read gives one.
What drives the cost of a ground cover bed
We do not print prices on a glossary page. These choices change a bid.
Plant count. UNH notes that closer spacing fills in faster but costs more, and that wider spacing is acceptable if you manage weeds until the plants fill in 2. The same math is on plant spacing.
Site clearing. Removing grass and weeds, then waiting 2 to 3 weeks to clear regrowth 4, adds visits.
Soil work. Compost, testing and loosening vary with the site. UGA suggests a soil test first 6. See soil testing.
Mulch and watering. Mulch between plants and watering through the first season add materials and time. Check the mulch calculator for volume.
Edging and paths. Containing a spreader and adding a path to replace foot traffic are common extras. See the cost hub.
How a ground cover bed is installed
The order below draws on Clemson, UNH, Illinois, Penn State and UGA. Call 811 before any digging, and read any herbicide label before use.
- Pick plants for the site’s light, moisture and soil, and check that they are not invasive in your state 12.
- Clear existing grass and weeds. Illinois says eliminating perennial weeds is the most critical step, using a systemic non-selective herbicide or black plastic for 1 to 3 months, and following all label directions 3. UNH describes smothering weeds with heavy plastic or thick newspaper topped with mulch or compost 2.
- Wait. Illinois and Penn State leave the prepared area unplanted for about 2 to 3 weeks so perennial weeds regrow and can be removed 34.
- Test the soil and add organic matter. UGA says to test first 6. Illinois tills to 6 to 8 inches and adds organic matter 3.
- Plant in spring or fall in a staggered or diamond pattern, at the same depth as in the pot or slightly higher to allow for mulch 32.
- Mulch between plants. Illinois says 1 to 2 inches; UNH says two to three inches of coarse organic mulch; UGA says to keep mulch pulled away from each plant’s base 326.
- Water. UNH says to check newly planted groundcovers at least once a week during the first growing season 2. Clemson says plants should not be allowed to wilt 1.
Care while the bed fills in, and after
Hand-weed and use shallow cultivation while plants establish, as Illinois advises 3. Weeds are the main cause of a failed bed.
Water through the first season, and after that only as needed in dry spells, says Illinois 3. UNH says to water during drought once plants are established 2.
Fertilizer advice varies, and we do not give rates. UNH says fertilizer is often unnecessary and should follow a soil test 2. UGA suggests a soil test and notes that new plantings may need fertilizer again in spring and early summer 6.
Trim and clear. UNH says to rake or blow leaves off plantings in fall because heavy leaf cover can smother plants 2. Illinois says older stems can be pruned so younger foliage grows back in 3. Clemson says to avoid severe pruning in late summer or fall 1.
Contain spreaders with landscape edging where plants may escape.
Warning signs, and the invasive problem
Bare patches and weeds. Weeds taking over mean the plants were spaced too far apart or the bed was not cleared well, as UGA notes 6.
Escape. Clemson says English ivy and periwinkle can escape into natural areas and cautions to guard against plants known to become invasive. It also says vining types should not be allowed to consume trees 1. Colorado State says some ground covers grow so fast they become invasive 5.
Sunburn and drought scorch. Maryland says to keep soil moisture even in ground covers to reduce leaf scorch 8.
This page is not a diagnosis. To find a company, read how to choose a landscaping company.
Check your state’s invasive list before you plant
A ground cover that is fine in one state can be banned in another.
UNH lists creeping Jenny, common periwinkle, bishop’s weed and winter creeper euonymus as plants not to plant in New Hampshire 2. That is one state’s list.
See invasive plants in landscaping for how to check yours. Call 811 before digging, and follow every herbicide label.
What is advice, and what is a rule
| Topic | What is stated | Type | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spacing, timing and mulch | Extension guidance, written for each state | Guidance | Clemson, UNH, Illinois 123 |
| Invasive plants | New Hampshire lists some groundcovers as prohibited or on a watch list; Clemson says English ivy and periwinkle can escape in South Carolina. Each state differs | State rule or advice | UNH, Clemson 21 |
| Herbicide use | Follow all label directions; using a product against its label is a violation of federal law | Federal law | Illinois and EPA 37 |
| Turf replacement and rebates | Set by the water district or city | Local program | See the turf rebate research |
Ground covers compared with related ideas
| Idea | The difference | Where to read more |
|---|---|---|
| Ground cover plants (this page) | Low spreading plants that cover soil | You are here |
| Native landscaping | Chooses plants by local origin; some ground covers are native | Native landscaping |
| Xeriscaping | A seven-principle water-saving design that can use ground covers | Xeriscaping |
| Drought-tolerant plants | Plants that handle dry soil; some are ground covers | Drought-tolerant plants |
| Mulch | A cover for soil that is not alive | Mulch types |
| Lawn | Turfgrass, the most widely planted groundcover per Illinois, but one that takes foot traffic 3 | Lawn care |
Myths about ground covers
- Myth A ground cover is no work.
- Reality Most need weeding while they establish. Illinois calls the first seasons weed control critical, and UNH says they need little care once established 32.
- Myth Fast and easy is best.
- Reality Illinois advises against plants marketed as easy, rapid coverage in sun, shade, wet or dry, because they may be horticultural nightmares from aggressive growth 3.
- Myth You can walk on any of them like grass.
- Reality Clemson says most cannot be walked on 1.
- Myth Landscape fabric under the plants stops weeds.
- Reality Penn State says synthetic landscape cloth is not recommended, since it can increase erosion and runoff 4.
What changes by region: climate and the invasive list
Two things vary by place. The first is climate: planting times, winter hardiness and water needs.
UGA matches plants to its hardiness zone, which it gives as 7b for its county, along with exposure and height 6. Clemson’s advice is for South Carolina only 1. The second is the invasive list.
UNH lists creeping Jenny and common periwinkle as not to plant in New Hampshire, while Clemson warns about periwinkle escaping in South Carolina 21. Neither list is national.
Use your state’s agency or invasive plant council, and the hardiness zone page for winter cold.
When a ground cover makes sense, and your next step
A ground cover makes sense where grass will not grow or is hard to mow, on slopes and in shade, and where you can wait one to three seasons for cover. It makes less sense where people walk, or where you need a lawn right away.
Your next step is to name the job, map the light and soil, check your state’s invasive list, and ask a local nursery which plants suit the site.
If you hire a company, ask how weeds will be cleared and how plants will be spaced. Find a landscaping company when you are ready. HyreYard does not plant or sell anything.
- If Foot traffic every day
- Then Keep or plant lawn, or build a path; most ground covers cannot be walked on 1
- If Steep slope with erosion
- Then Ground covers hold soil; very steep or unstable ground needs an engineer or contractor 2
- If You want it filled fast and cheap
- Then Expect trade-offs: closer spacing costs more, wider spacing needs weed control 26
- If Your state bans a favorite plant
- Then Choose another; check the state list first 2
Questions about Ground Cover Plants
What are ground cover plants?
They are low-growing plants that cover the soil with many stems and leaves. University of New Hampshire Extension says the term usually means vigorous perennials used in planting beds. Illinois Extension says they provide dense soil cover, slow weeds and prevent erosion, and range from about an inch to four feet tall.
What is the best ground cover to replace grass?
It depends on light, moisture, soil, foot traffic and your state’s invasive list, so extension sources give plant lists by state, not one answer. Clemson says ground covers suit shade under trees, steep banks and very wet or dry sites. Ask your local Cooperative Extension office for a regional list.
Can you walk on ground cover?
Mostly not. Clemson Extension says that unlike grass, most groundcover plants cannot be walked on. If you need foot traffic, plan stepping stones or a path, or ask a nursery which plant tolerates some traffic. Heavy, daily use usually calls for lawn or hard paving.
How far apart should I plant ground cover?
UNH Extension says most groundcovers are spaced between six inches and two feet apart, and closer spacing fills in faster but costs more. A Georgia extension article gives about 1 foot for small plants, 2 feet for daylilies and 4 to 5 feet for junipers. Faster growers need more room.
How long does ground cover take to fill in?
Clemson says to space plants so the bed is covered by the end of the third growing season, and that establishment can take up to two years. Illinois says to allow at least one to two growing seasons for full establishment. Weeding and watering during that time make the difference.
When is the best time to plant ground cover?
Spring or fall for most, according to UNH, Illinois and Penn State, so roots establish before summer heat. Clemson says most can go in any time of year, with fall favored, and that summer planting needs adequate and frequent watering. Check the dates your local Extension office suggests.
How do I stop weeds in a ground cover bed?
Clear perennial weeds before planting. Illinois Extension calls this the most critical step and says to follow label directions on any herbicide. After planting, mulch between plants, hand-weed while plants establish, and keep the soil evenly moist. Penn State advises against plastic or synthetic landscape cloth.
Are ground covers invasive?
Some are. UNH says some groundcovers are extremely aggressive and lists creeping Jenny, common periwinkle, bishop’s weed and winter creeper euonymus as plants not to plant in New Hampshire. Clemson says English ivy and periwinkle can escape into natural areas. Invasive status is set by each state, so check yours.
Do ground covers need fertilizer?
Often little. UNH says fertilizer is often unnecessary and should follow a soil test. Clemson and UGA give state-specific advice for new plantings. We do not give rates, because they depend on the soil, the plant and local rules. Do a soil test first.
Is ground cover better than mulch?
They do different jobs. Mulch is a non-living cover that holds moisture and blocks weeds right away. A ground cover is living and spreads, and UNH says it suppresses weeds once established. Most ground cover beds use mulch between plants until the plants close the gaps.
Sources
- Clemson Cooperative Extension HGIC, Groundcovers: Planting and Care (HGIC 1100, updated November 25, 2019), retrieved .
- University of New Hampshire Extension, Groundcovers for New Hampshire (fact sheet), retrieved .
- University of Illinois Extension, Ground Covers (landscaping section), retrieved .
- Penn State Extension, Native Groundcovers Can Solve Tough Challenges in the Landscape (Deb Christopher, updated August 23, 2024), retrieved .
- Colorado State University Extension, Xeriscaping: Ground Cover Plants (Klett and Wilson, reviewed August 2025), retrieved .
- University of Georgia Extension, Lincoln County, Maximizing Your Landscape’s Potential with Ground Covers (November 18, 2024), retrieved .
- US EPA, Introduction to Pesticide Labels (last updated June 2, 2026), retrieved .
- University of Maryland Extension, Sunburn Damage on Flowers (updated March 7, 2023), retrieved .
Expert review
Written by the HyreYard Research Desk. Not yet reviewed by an outside expert. We say so rather than imply a review that has not happened; see our editorial policy.
How the numbers were checked: Definitions, spacing, weed control, planting times and invasive cautions come from Clemson, New Hampshire, Illinois, Penn State, Colorado State and Georgia extension pages.
Each is a different state, so plant examples and invasive lists are labelled as that state’s.
The Missouri ground cover publication was blocked (HTTP 403) and the thyme foot-traffic note from search summaries is not cited. Fertilizer and herbicide rates are deliberately left out.
The three example spots are invented, and the chart shows one Georgia article’s printed spacings.
Suggest a correction. We fix errors and say what changed.