From our perspective as plants, the most fundamental requirement for using us as a ground cover is understanding our natural growth habit. We are not upright growers like grass; we are trailers and climbers. Our stems, known as stolons, grow horizontally along the soil surface, rooting at the nodes (the points where leaves emerge). This is how we form a dense, mat-like carpet. For you, this means we will not tolerate the constant, close shaving of a traditional lawn mower. Our goal is to cover the ground intimately, suppressing weeds by shading the soil below with our foliage. When you choose a jasmine species for this purpose, such as Asian Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum) or the more delicate Confederate Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides), you are selecting a plant that wants to sprawl and connect, creating a living tapestry rather than a uniform blade-based lawn.
To thrive and provide you with that lush, fragrant carpet, we need specific environmental conditions. We are particular about our sunlight. While we are adaptable, we generally prefer a location with full sun to partial shade. In very hot, intense afternoon sun, some dappled shade can prevent our leaves from scorching. The soil is our home, and we need it to be well-draining yet rich in organic matter. We dislike having our roots sitting in waterlogged soil, which can lead to fatal root rot. Amending the planting area with compost before we are installed gives us a wonderful head start. Furthermore, we are sensitive to cold. Most true jasmines used for ground cover are best suited for warmer climates (USDA zones 7-10, depending on the species). A hard frost can damage our leaves and stems, so it is crucial to select a jasmine variety rated for your specific winter hardiness zone.
The initial period after planting is critical for us. Unlike grass seed that germinates quickly, we need time to settle in and begin our horizontal journey. You can help us immensely by planting us correctly. Space our individual plants according to the recommended distance for the species—usually between 12 to 24 inches apart. This may look sparse at first, but this spacing allows each plant room to spread without excessive competition. Immediately after planting, provide us with a deep, thorough watering to help our root systems make contact with the surrounding soil. A layer of mulch around our base (but not touching our stems) will help conserve moisture and keep the soil temperature stable as we establish ourselves. This first year is a period of root development; above-ground growth may seem slow, but a strong foundation underground is essential for our long-term health.
Once we are established, our care needs shift. Watering remains important, especially during dry spells. We prefer deep, infrequent watering that encourages our roots to grow downward, making us more drought-tolerant over time. Light, frequent sprinklings encourage shallow roots, which make us more vulnerable to heat stress. To encourage the dense, lush growth you desire, a gentle pruning or "mowing" with a string trimmer set high, or shearing with hedge trimmers, can be done once or twice a year. This trimming stimulates new growth from the base, thickening our mat. For fragrance, remember that our iconic scent comes from our flowers. To promote prolific blooming, feed us in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. The energy from this feeding will support the development of the flower buds that will release our perfume, typically in late spring or summer, transforming your ground cover into a sensory delight.
