Divide and Conquer

If you already have one of these ground covers and would like to divide it, don't worry. Liriope and mondo grass can easily be lifted, separated, and planted in other locations. Or you can buy them in flats or small pots. Buying lots of small pots may seem like an expensive way to go, but remember--if you have to buy your plants, you can divide them and get several sprigs from one pot. Use a sharp hatchet or knife to separate tight, root-bound clumps, and then cut off the bottom half of the roots with clippers. This will not harm the divisions, but will promote new root growth.

Space liriope 8 to 10 inches apart and mondo grass 4 to 6 inches apart. Large plantings should be put out in a gridlike pattern. If the soil is loose and you water and fertilize periodically, they should mesh tightly together in a couple of years.

Mulch new plantings with finely shredded bark. Bark keeps weeds out and moisture in. It also allows stolons to move under the mulch so plants can spread.