TOPICS:
Ground cover plants usually will respond to any good lawn fertilizer with high nitrogen and intermediate levels of phosphorus and potassium. Two applications are recommended--one in the spring and one in the fall. Liquid fertilizers, such as 21-21- 21, also will give good results in most areas.
Like most plants, groundcovers should be cut back at least once a year to encourage new growth. A rotary lawn mower can be used on low nonwoody plants. Taller growing or woody plants should be thinned out and headed back with hand pruners.
Although most of the plants described in this stack require very little maintenance, they will respond to some care, especially during the establishment period. Preparation of the soil is the same as for turf. The soil should be thoroughly loosened , organic matter incorporated, and a balanced fertilizer evenly applied. Irrigation for most ground cover plants is important during the establishment period. Special attention should be given to those requiring moisture for best growth.
Place ground cover plants close enough together so that full coverage can be attained in a short time; however, they should not be spaced so close that the plants pile up, thereby increasing the potential for disease or harborage for rodents.
The following table is a guide for estimating plant requirements:
One flat of 100 plants
| Spaced | Will Cover |
|---|---|
| 4" apart | 11 square feet |
| 6" apart | 25 square feet |
| 8" apart | 44 square feet |
| 10" apart | 70 square feet |
| 12" apart | 100 square feet |
| 15" apart | 156 square feet |
| 18" apart | 225 square feet |
| 24" apart | 400 square feet |