DIY Network

Planting a Groundcover From "The Dirt On..." episode DTDO-118

There's a groundcover for every situation. Before you buy, consider the height you need, plus foliage type, flowers and rate of growth.

Groundcovers are plants that typically sprawl, spread, or take over an area by reseeding or re-rooting. They can cover an area like a walkway all by themselves or you can use them to fill in the gaps between stepping stones.

There are many different types of groundcovers to choose from. Consider the year-round appearance and bloom periods when selecting ground cover. Miniature daisy will add a little height while creeping jenny (or moneywort) grows low and spreads fast. If you want to plant a walkway, choose something that will stand up to heavy foot traffic like creeping thyme or woolly thyme. If you don't want to plant something all green, miniature viola has beautiful purple and white blooms. And brass buttons has tiny white flowers.

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Be sure to check the tags on the plants when you're at the nursery so you know the exposure and watering requirements. 'Green Carpet' vinca needs full sun while baby's tears and variegated pennywort grow well in shady areas. Select the toughest plant available that looks attractive for the longest period.

Planting guidelines are similar to those of your other garden plants. Here's how to plant them between stepping stones:

Spacing groundcover plants six to eight inches apart or more (up to 12 inches apart) and allowing them time to fill in will save you money and planting time.

Prepare the soil. Make sure there aren't any weeds in the area and add any amendments necessary to give the soil good aeration and drainage.

Dig the holes. Arrange plants around your pavers and dig holes the same depth as the plant's root ball and two to three times wider. You can space them close together for instant results or space them six to eight inches apart, allowing them room to fill in. Spacing them farther apart will save you money and planting time so if you have a fast grower, that may be the way to go.

Plant. Spread the roots with your fingers and set them in the holes. Backfill around the holes and gently press each one into place. Remember to water them thoroughly right after you plant to help settle the soil.