Dichondra repens Seeds – Creeping Perennial Ground Cover

A Low Carpet of Bright-Green Leaves

Dichondra repens seeds grow into a creeping perennial ground cover with small, rounded to kidney-shaped leaves. Usually reaching approximately 1–2 inches tall, this warm-season plant spreads close to the soil to create a soft-looking green carpet.

Use it in suitable landscape areas, as a low-growing container companion, or as a lawn alternative where foot traffic is light. Its appeal is the foliage rather than showy flowers, with a naturally low habit that can reduce mowing needs.

Plant Highlights

• Botanical name: Dichondra repens.
• Other common names: Kidney weed, dichondra pony foot, and lawn leaf.
• Life cycle: Warm-season perennial where climate permits.
• Height: Approximately 1–2 inches.
• Spread: Up to approximately 36 inches in suitable conditions.
• Foliage: Bright green, rounded to kidney-shaped leaves.
• Light: Full sun to partial shade.
• Foot traffic: Light; not intended as a heavy-use turf substitute.
• Soil: Loamy and well drained; listed pH range 5.5–6.2.
• Seed: Coated to help retain moisture during establishment.

When to Sow

Wait for warm soil before planting. The existing germination guidance specifies approximately 72–76°F, with germination typically taking 7–14 days under favorable conditions. Cool soil can delay or prevent establishment.

Spring or late-summer planting may be suitable when temperatures allow enough time for establishment. This is a warm-climate ground cover; winter appearance and survival depend on local conditions. Do not assume year-round green coverage in cold climates.

Prepare the Seedbed

Remove existing weeds thoroughly before sowing. Prepare loose, smooth, clod-free soil with good drainage. Weed removal is especially important because broadleaf weeds can be difficult to remove from an established dichondra planting.

How to Sow

Distribute seed evenly over the prepared surface and press into the soil. The listed planting directions call for light for germination, so avoid burying the seed deeply. Water gently to avoid displacing it.

Keep the seedbed consistently moist, not soggy, until germination and early establishment. Adjust watering frequency to weather and exposure rather than relying on a fixed daily schedule.

The repeated seeding guidance in the existing listing is 1 lb per 500 square feet. For individual planting positions, the listed spacing is approximately 18 inches. Follow the supplied seed label if its instructions differ.

Watering and Ongoing Care

As plants establish, transition away from frequent light watering toward deeper watering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between irrigations. Adjust for rainfall, drainage, heat, and container conditions.

Monitor weeds and remove them promptly. Base fertilizer applications on the product label and the planting area's needs. Use a weed-control product only if its label specifically permits use on dichondra; broadleaf weed killers can damage this broadleaf ground cover.

Plants may be left unmown for a natural low-growing display. Where mowing is desired for a more even finish, avoid removing too much foliage at once or scalping the planting. Watch for pest damage and avoid persistent excess moisture.

Growing in Containers

Choose a container with drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix. Sow on the surface, press gently into place, and keep moist during germination.

Position in full sun to partial shade and allow room for creeping growth. Check moisture regularly, especially in warm or windy weather, and allow excess water to drain freely. Trim spreading growth as needed to keep it within the container display.

Available Seed Packs

Choose a 1,000-seed packet, 1/4 oz, 1 oz, 1/4 lb, or 1 lb. The existing seed information lists approximately 12,130 seeds per ounce; counts in weight-based packs can vary.