Can You Grow Ground Cover from Seed?
Yes, you can grow ground cover from seed, and it is often the most budget-friendly way to cover bare soil, slopes, or awkward garden spots. Many popular ground cover species, including creeping thyme, clover, and alyssum, are easy to start from seed when you match the variety to your climate and site conditions. The tradeoff is time: seed-grown ground covers require more patience than nursery plants, but the cost savings and satisfaction of watching them spread make the effort worthwhile.
What Are the Best Ground Cover Varieties to Grow from Seed?
Not every ground cover is practical to start from seed, but several reliable options work well for both sun and shade. For full sun areas with good drainage, creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) is a top choice. It forms a dense, fragrant mat that handles light foot traffic and produces tiny pink or purple flowers in summer. Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata) also thrives in full sun and creates a stunning carpet of spring blooms, though it requires stratification — a cold treatment to break seed dormancy — before sowing.
For partial shade, sweet woodruff (Galium odoratum) spreads quickly under trees and along shady borders. Wild ginger (Asarum canadense) is another shade-tolerant option with attractive heart-shaped leaves. If you want fast results, annual alyssum (Lobularia maritima) germinates in less than a week and blooms the same season, though it is not perennial in cold climates. White clover (Trifolium repens) is a classic choice for lawns and erosion control, and it tolerates poor soil and foot traffic better than many ornamental ground covers. Perennial ryegrass mixed with microclover is another seed-based option for creating a living mulch that stays low and green.
How Do You Prepare the Soil for Ground Cover Seeds?
Soil preparation is the single most important step for successful germination. Start by clearing the area of all weeds, grass, rocks, and debris. Weeds compete aggressively with tiny ground cover seedlings, so remove them completely, including their roots. Loosen the top 4 to 6 inches of soil with a garden rake or a tiller. If the soil is heavy clay or very sandy, mix in 1 to 2 inches of organic matter like compost or aged manure to improve structure and moisture retention.
Level the soil surface with a rake to create a smooth, fine seedbed. Ground cover seeds are often very small and need consistent contact with the soil to germinate. For compacted areas, consider spreading a 1-inch layer of seed starting mix over the prepared soil to give delicate roots a loose, nutrient-rich environment. Water the area thoroughly a day before sowing to settle the soil and provide moisture at the root zone.
When Is the Best Time to Sow Ground Cover Seeds?
Timing depends on the species and your local climate, but most perennial ground covers do best when sown in spring after the last frost. Soil temperatures should be at least 60 to 70°F