How-to Guide
Planting Groundcovers and Spacing Them Right
The short answer
Space groundcovers based on how fast they spread and how quickly you need cover: most do well at roughly 12 to 24 inches apart, and spreading types fill in well at about 8 to 12 inches. Closer spacing covers open soil faster, reducing weeds and erosion, while wider spacing uses fewer plants for vigorous spreaders. Plant in a staggered or diamond pattern for the most even fill.
To estimate quantity, use the chosen spacing across the bed's area; closer spacing means more plants. If you're replacing lawn, it's simplest to remove the sod first, and expect one to two growing seasons for full establishment.
Spacing guidelines
- Most groundcovers: about 12 to 24 inches apart
- Spreading types: about 8 to 12 inches apart
- Closer spacing = faster cover, fewer weeds; wider spacing = fewer plants for vigorous spreaders
Planting steps
- 1Prepare the site — If replacing lawn, remove the sod first rather than planting into existing turf.
- 2Set a staggered pattern — Plant in a staggered or diamond layout for even, quicker coverage.
- 3Water and wait — Water in well and allow one to two growing seasons for the planting to fully establish.
Sources
Reviewed 2026-07-18. We cite university Extension, government, and established horticultural sources — and never invent pesticide rates or dangerous treatments.
- University of Maryland Extension — Groundcovers — Spacing depends on habit and desired speed of cover; staggered pattern; remove sod when replacing lawn.
- Illinois Extension — Ground Covers (Landscaping) — Spacing depends on habit, growth rate, cost, and how fast the area needs cover.
- Iowa State University Extension — How to Determine Plant Quantity for Planting Beds — Method to calculate plant quantity from spacing and bed area.