A ground cover is any low-growing plant that spreads horizontally, offering weed suppression, moisture retention, and erosion control. The genus Mentha, which includes species like peppermint and spearmint, is often considered for this role due to its dense growth habit. However, determining if mint is a “good” ground cover depends entirely on the specific goals for the landscape and the gardener’s tolerance for maintenance. Mint’s vigorous nature provides benefits while simultaneously presenting a significant challenge to the rest of the garden.
The Qualities That Make Mint Appealing
Mint offers several desirable attributes that make it an attractive choice for quickly covering bare ground. Its primary strength is its rapid and dense growth, allowing it to fulfill its function quickly after planting. It spreads readily, forming a thick, lush carpet of foliage that effectively shades the soil, reducing water evaporation and suppressing weeds.
Many varieties of mint, such as chocolate mint or Corsican mint, are hardy and resistant to common garden pests and diseases. They tolerate a wide range of light conditions, thriving in partial shade to full sun, provided they receive sufficient moisture. The aromatic foliage releases a pleasant fragrance when brushed against or walked upon, a unique sensory benefit. This quick establishment and sensory appeal make it seem like an ideal solution for difficult garden spaces.
The Challenge of Aggressive Spreading
The mechanism that allows mint to be an excellent ground cover is also its primary drawback. Mint spreads through vigorous underground stems known as rhizomes, which extend laterally beneath the soil surface. These rhizomes are stem tissue, not true roots, and they can travel several feet away from the parent plant before emerging as a new shoot.
The rhizomes are highly resilient; even a small fragment left behind in the soil can readily sprout into a new plant. This makes mint extremely difficult to eradicate once established. The dense network of rhizomes can easily choke out neighboring garden beds, lawns, and the root systems of less vigorous plants. Mint’s relentless expansion demands constant vigilance and removal efforts.
Techniques for Managing Mint in the Landscape
Gardeners who wish to use mint as a ground cover require proactive containment strategies. The most effective method is container gardening, which involves planting the mint in a pot rather than directly into the ground. If a traditional ground cover look is desired, a plastic or metal root barrier must be sunk at least 12 to 18 inches deep to block the horizontal spread of the rhizomes.
Another technique involves planting mint in a bottomless container buried in the ground, leaving the rim a few inches above the soil line. This elevated lip prevents surface runners from arching over and rooting outside the designated area. Selecting less aggressive varieties, such as Corsican mint (Mentha requienii), can also reduce maintenance. Consistent harvesting and clipping of the stems before they flower helps reduce the plant’s energy for spreading by preventing seed formation.