Walkable Ground Cover: 6 Best Plants for Low-Maintenance Lawns

Walkable ground cover plants are the perfect alternative to traditional grass. These low-growing species tolerate light to moderate foot traffic, require less maintenance, and add natural charm to your landscape.

From stone pathways to full lawn replacements, choosing a walkable ground cover helps you create an eco-friendly garden that stays beautiful all year long.
Walkable ground cover is an excellent alternative to traditional grass lawns, offering low-maintenance beauty, erosion control, and a soft surface that can handle foot traffic. These ground-hugging plants are ideal for pathways, patios, or full lawn replacements—especially in water-conscious or high-use landscapes.

Why Use Walkable Ground Cover Instead of Grass?

Walkable ground cover plants form dense mats that spread horizontally, covering the soil and reducing the need for mowing. They thrive in areas where grass struggles and offer a soft, inviting look—ideal for:

• • Patios and stepping stone paths

• • Driveway edges

• • Dry zones and sloped areas

• • Pet-friendly play areas

According to HGTV, walkable ground covers are a sustainable, low-water solution to replace high-maintenance lawns.

Top Walkable Ground Cover Plants for Your Garden

1. Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)

Sun | Moderate foot traffic

This fragrant, flowering plant is one of the most popular walkable ground covers. It forms a tight, resilient carpet with tiny purple blooms. It also tolerates drought and poor soil—ideal for full-sun paths.

2. Irish Moss (Sagina subulata)

Part shade | Light to moderate traffic

Soft, sponge-like, and evergreen in cool climates, Irish moss fills in garden gaps beautifully. It thrives between stepping stones and is often chosen for its year-round color and star-like flowers.

3. Corsican Mint (Mentha requienii)

Shade | Light traffic only

For shaded garden paths, Corsican mint offers a low-growing mat with a minty fragrance. It’s best for light use areas like decorative zones or soft edges of garden beds.

4. Dichondra (Dichondra repens)

Sun to part shade | Moderate traffic

With clover-like leaves and a bright green hue, Dichondra works well as a full lawn substitute in warmer climates. It tolerates moderate use and adds a smooth, finished look to open areas.

5. Blue Star Creeper (Isotoma fluviatilis)

Sun or shade | Moderate traffic

This flowering ground cover spreads quickly and fills cracks or open spaces between tiles. Its tiny blue blossoms create visual interest while its foliage tolerates everyday walking.

6. Mazus (Mazus reptans)

Sun to part shade | High traffic

Among the best walkable ground cover choices, Mazus grows fast and resists wear. Its vibrant purple flowers appear in early spring, and it stays green and healthy even with frequent use.

Benefits of Using Walkable Ground Cover Plants

Lower water usage than turfgrass
No mowing required
Soft underfoot with visual interest
Prevents erosion and smothers weeds
Supports pollinators with seasonal blooms

Looking for full-yard solutions? Explore our sustainable landscaping guide to learn more about low-impact design.

How to Plant Walkable Ground Cover Successfully

1. 1. Clear the area of grass or weeds

1. 1. Loosen soil and add compost for drainage

1. 1. Space plants 6–12 inches apart

1. 1. Water deeply until roots are well established

1. 1. Avoid heavy traffic for the first few weeks

1. 1. Use mulch only if needed around new plantings

Mixing different types of walkable ground cover can also create texture contrast and adapt better to varying light and soil conditions in your landscape.