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Groundcovers that handle heavy foot traffic are often described as lawn alternatives, because they spring back but don't need to be mowed. These plants generally have smallish leaves and grow very densely and low to the ground. "Bluestar creeper (Istomoa fluviatilis) looks like a forget-me-not and takes a lot of foot traffic," says Kathy Freeland, of Midwest Groundcovers, a wholesale nursery in St. Charles, Illinois.
Other plants that thrive underfoot include Pratia pendunculata 'County Park', a creeper with violet flowers that bloom from spring to fall, and rupturewort (Herniaria glabra), an evergreen plant with small white flowers and foliage that turns red in the fall. Leptinella squalida, which forms a carpet of tiny green leaves, is especially tough. "You can drive on it," Freeland says. Herbs work great in areas with lighter foot traffic. Freeland suggests chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile), wooly thyme (Thymus pseudolanuginosus), mother-of-thyme (Thymus serpyllum), and any of the low-growing mints (Mentha spp.).
Dutch white clover (Trifolium repens) is a great addition to an organic garden and also a classic pathway plant. We chose it for the OG Test Garden pathways because it grows quickly, requires little to no extra water after it is established, adds nitrogen to the soil, attracts beneficial insects, and handles moderate foot traffic—though it does look unruly without occasional mowing.
Groundcovers, including clover, have a habit of sneaking into garden beds and often grow aggressively. Some may even be considered invasive in certain parts of the United States. Before you plant a groundcover, call your county extension to see if it is a problem in your area. If you want more plant ideas, check out Stepables (503-581-8915) or Jeepers Creepers.
