When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Ground Cover For Playground (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for an effective way to keep your kids safe while they play, ground cover for your playground is a must-have. Choosing the right type of ground cover can be a challenging task, but it's important to select an option that provides the right level of safety and protection.

When it comes to selecting ground cover for playgrounds, there are a few key factors to consider. First, you'll want to ensure that the material is safe and non-toxic. You should also look for an option that is durable and able to withstand heavy use over time. Finally, it's important to choose ground cover that provides adequate cushioning to prevent injuries in the event of a fall.

If you're still not convinced that ground cover for your playground is necessary, consider the following questions: How important is your child's safety? Are you willing to take risks when it comes to something as important as their well-being? How much would it cost to deal with an injury that could have been prevented with proper ground cover? By investing in quality ground cover for your playground, you can have peace of mind knowing that your children can play safely and enjoyably.

10 Best Ground Cover For Playground

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for use as a heavy-duty garden cloth felt to block soil erosion and weed growth.
2
Ideal for landscaping projects as a weed barrier and ground cover. Made from durable rubber nuggets in a natural redwood color.
3
This product is ideal for creating a low-maintenance lawn that requires less watering and fertilization.
4
Ideal for playgrounds and outdoor play areas with a 6ft fall height, providing a safe and cushioned surface for children.
5
Ideal for providing evergreen ground cover in shade-loving areas.
6
Ideal for providing shade in outdoor areas such as patios, gardens, playgrounds and backyard areas.
7
Ideal for use as a heavy-duty weed barrier and ground cover fabric for driveways, gardens, lawns, and outdoor areas.
8
This product is ideal for landscaping and ground cover with its purple creeping thyme seeds, providing approximately 8000 seeds.
9
Ideal for creating low-maintenance ground cover and alternative lawn options in warm-season climates.
10
Ideal for providing shade and UV protection in outdoor spaces such as pergolas, backyards, gardens, and playgrounds.
This product is ideal for use as a heavy-duty garden cloth felt to block soil erosion and weed growth.
Ideal for landscaping projects as a weed barrier and ground cover. Made from durable rubber nuggets in a natural redwood color.
This product is ideal for creating a low-maintenance lawn that requires less watering and fertilization.
Ideal for playgrounds and outdoor play areas with a 6ft fall height, providing a safe and cushioned surface for children.
Ideal for providing evergreen ground cover in shade-loving areas.
Ideal for providing shade in outdoor areas such as patios, gardens, playgrounds and backyard areas.
Ideal for use as a heavy-duty weed barrier and ground cover fabric for driveways, gardens, lawns, and outdoor areas.
This product is ideal for landscaping and ground cover with its purple creeping thyme seeds, providing approximately 8000 seeds.
Ideal for creating low-maintenance ground cover and alternative lawn options in warm-season climates.
Ideal for providing shade and UV protection in outdoor spaces such as pergolas, backyards, gardens, and playgrounds.

1. Vivosun Landscape Barrier: Heavy-Duty Ground Cover

The VIVOSUN 2-layer barrier landscape fabric is a premium quality and durable solution for your landscaping needs. This fabric is composed of a high-density woven base with a fuzzy non-woven needle-punched fabric, which makes it thick and able to last more than 5 years in direct sunlight and more than 25 years if not exposed to direct sunlight.

This garden fabric has good drainage capabilities, with 4 times more water permeability than other traditional woven ground covers. It allows air and water to flow through easily, ensuring roots can respire sufficiently and groundwater can drain rapidly.

This commercial grade garden felt is multifunctional and can be used for landscape or soil stabilization purposes, or as a barrier in your garden, flower beds, walkways, driveways, patios, backyards, playgrounds, orchards, vegetable patches, grasses, gabions, and other places.

Setting up this heavy-duty garden fabric is easy with its 4 ft. width and 250 ft. length. You can cut it to the size you need, and the cut edges fray and unravel less because of its special construction.

The thoughtful design of this garden fabric includes green line guides incorporated into the roll, appearing every foot to help align plants. The sturdy structure of this fabric blocks or prevents unwanted plants from passing through.

Pros

  • Thick and durable
  • Can last more than 5 years in direct sunlight and more than 25 years without
  • Good drainage capabilities
  • Multifunctional
  • Easy to set up
  • Green line guides make it easy to align plants
  • Blocks or prevents unwanted plants

2. Redwood Rubber Mulch: Weed Barrier, Ground Cover

Looking for a long-lasting solution for your landscaped area? Look no further than these rubber nuggets! With a 12-year color guarantee, you can be sure that the color won't fade or rub off. Unlike wood chip mulch, these nuggets won't need to be replaced annually, and their weight means they won't be blown around by winds or leaf blowers. The nugget design is a great alternative to traditional wood chips.

Made from 99.9% wire-free recycled rubber and ASTM F3012 tested, these rubber nuggets are impervious to both cold and heat, which means they won't absorb water and freeze. Additionally, they are non-flammable, making them a safe and reliable option for your landscaped area.

Not only are these rubber nuggets tested and proven, but they are also eco-friendly. Made from 100% recycled waste tires, they are non-toxic and safe for children, pets, and animals. They won't attract animals, insects, or rodents like other materials and won't develop fungus or slime. The nuggets are even splinter-free and act as a weed barrier.

If you're concerned about coverage, each bag of these rubber nuggets covers 1.5 cubic feet and weighs approximately 40 pounds. For residential playgrounds, a recommended depth of 3-4 inches is advised. Based on a 3-inch depth, these are the approximate number of bags needed for various coverage areas: 5' x 5' coverage = 5 bags, 10' x 10' coverage = 20 bags, 15' x 15' coverage = 45 bags, 20' x 20' coverage = 80 bags.

Pros

  • 12-year color guarantee
  • Weight keeps nuggets in place
  • No need to replace annually
  • Made from 100% recycled waste tires
  • Non-toxic, safe for children, pets, and animals
  • Won't attract animals, insects, or rodents
  • Acts as a weed barrier
  • Available in 5 attractive colors

Cons

  • – More expensive than wood chips

3. Outsidepride Perennial White Miniclover Lawn Clover & Ground Cover Seeds – 5 Lbs, Green

Miniclover is a type of perennial white clover that is used as an alternative to traditional lawns or as a ground cover. It grows to a height of only 4-6 inches after a few mowings and serves as a natural fertilizer because it fixes nitrogen from the air. The seeds of this clover, Trifolium repens, are much better suited for lawns than other white clovers. Additionally, Miniclover is a dwarf variety that only grows to half the height of White Dutch Clover, and its leaf heads are only 1/3 to 1/2 the size.

This microclover is ideal for those who prefer a no-mow lawn. It is a perennial that can be grown in USDA Zones 3-10. Sow 1-2 pounds of clover seeds per 1,000 square feet of lawn for optimal growth.

Pros

  • Miniclover is a natural fertilizer because it fixes nitrogen from the air
  • It is a dwarf variety that only grows to half the height of White Dutch Clover
  • This microclover is perfect for those who prefer a no-mow lawn
  • It is a perennial that can be grown in USDA Zones 3-10

Cons

  • – None found.

4. Blue Rubber Playground Mulch – 50 Bags Coverage!

The playground surface is an essential part of creating a safe environment for children to play in. This playground surface provides a soft cushion that helps reduce injuries and keeps children safe on the playground. It is a great alternative to traditional wood mulch as it is 5 times heavier and does not blow away. Unlike wood mulch, this playground surface does not float, absorb water, or erode during heavy rain and flooding. This makes it a more sustainable and long-lasting solution.

One of the biggest advantages of this playground surface is that it does not attract termites, carpenter ants, or other harmful insects. This is a crucial feature as it ensures that children are not exposed to any dangerous insects while playing. Additionally, this playground surface is IPEMA and ASTM certified, which means that it meets the highest standards for safety and durability. It is also warrantied against fading for up to 12 years, ensuring that it retains its vibrant color for a long time.

Overall, this playground surface is an excellent investment for any playground. It provides a soft and safe surface that can withstand heavy use and harsh weather conditions. Its durability, safety, and sustainability make it an ideal choice for any playground.

Pros

  • Provides a soft cushion that helps reduce injuries and keeps children safe on the playground
  • 5 times heavier than wood mulch – will not blow away
  • Does not float, absorb water, or erode during heavy rain and flooding
  • Does not attract termites, carpenter ants, or other harmful insects
  • IPEMA and ASTM certified
  • Warrantied against fading for up to 12 years

5. Dwarf Mondo Grass Qty 90 Live Plants Shade Loving Evergreen Ground Cover

The Dwarf Mondo Grass is a slow-growing, evergreen perennial grass with dark green foliage. It is an excellent ornamental plant that creates a dense, lush groundcover with grass-like clumps. This grass is only half the size of other varieties, reaching a height of only 4-6 inches and a width of 4-6 inches. This makes it a great edging plant or a perfect addition to rock gardens for an appealing contrast. The Dwarf Mondo Grass can also be used in mass plantings in the landscape due to its striking appearance. It is a popular choice for borders, ground covers, and seashore plantings. It thrives in partial shade to full sun and is hardy in zones 7-10. Please note that it cannot be shipped to California or Hawaii.

Pros

  • Creates a lush groundcover of dense, dark green grass-like clumps
  • Perfect as an edging plant or tucked into rocks for a pleasing contrast
  • Striking in mass plantings in the landscape
  • Slow-growing and clumping growth habit
  • Widely used in rock gardens, seashore plantings, borders, and ground covers
  • Thrives in partial shade to full sun
  • Hardy in zones 7-10

Cons

  • – Cannot be shipped to California or Hawaii

6. Triangle Shade Sail For Patio And Backyard Fun!

The sun shade sail is a perfect solution to protect you and your loved ones from harmful UV rays and direct sunlight exposure. Made of 185 gsm UV protected high-density polyethylene (100% HDPE) shade fabric with strong stitched seams, this sail comes with durable stainless steel D-rings in each corner that make it easy to attach to any sturdy connection point. It effectively blocks up to 95% of UV rays and reduces heat, while still allowing cooling breezes and light to pass through for better airy and comfortable space.

This sun shade sail is designed with breathable material that allows rains to pass through, so there's no pooling water. However, it is not waterproof. The measurement is taken from D ring to D ring, and it's recommended to leave 1.5 – 2 foot space for the hardware kit between shade sail D ring and mounting points. All edges are finished slightly curved so it can be stretched tightly.

This sun shade sail is widely used for various outdoor occasions such as a patio, lawn, garden, pool, BBQ areas, pond, deck, kailyard, courtyard, backyard, dooryard, park, carport, pergola, sandbox, driveway, etc. This product comes with a warranty, ensuring that you get the best quality product and the best value for your money.

Pros

  • Blocks up to 95% of UV rays
  • Made of 185 gsm UV protected high-density polyethylene (100% HDPE) shade fabric with strong stitched seams
  • Designed with breathable material that allows cooling breezes and light to pass through
  • Comes with durable stainless steel D-rings in each corner that make it easy to attach to any sturdy connection point

Cons

  • – Not waterproof

7. Heavy-Duty Weed Barrier For Outdoor Landscaping

The Heavy Duty & High Density weed barrier landscape fabric is a premium quality ground cover weed barrier that can make your home projects easier and hassle-free. It is made of 5.8oz high density woven needle punched dual layer and professional grade Polyester material, which provides superior strength and durability. The dimensions of this weed fabric are 4ft wide by 300ft long.

This weed barrier fabric is weatherproof and UV stabilized due to its premium Polypropylene material and high density woven needle punched dual layer design. It is eco-friendly and protects your yard's ecosystem, allows your plants to thrive, and reduces soil erosion. The high strength and high permeability of this landscape fabric make it more durable and long-lasting as compared to other nonwoven landscaping fabrics.

The Heavy Duty & High Density weed barrier landscape fabric is designed with green stripes that make it easy to lay and cut with scissors. The green stripes also help in easy plant alignment. It is suitable for various outdoor uses, including artificial grass, vegetable patch, flower bed, ground cover, garden, driveway, chippings, stones, gravel walkway, patio, playground, greenhouse, and many more. You can easily DIY the cloth size and shape for your home projects as per your requirements.

The Needle Non-woven Layer of the fabric should face up for better sun protection, weed barrier, and stronger water permeability. The premium design of the fabric allows air and water to pass through while preserving soil moisture without blocking air or water. The Heavy Duty & High Density weed barrier landscape fabric is easy to set up and provides excellent value for money while exceeding the highest industry standards. The manufacturer also offers thoughtful and considerate customer care for your convenience.

Pros

  • Made of 5.8oz high density woven needle punched dual layer and professional grade Polyester material
  • Weatherproof and UV stabilized due to its premium Polypropylene material and high density woven needle punched dual layer design
  • High strength and high permeability make it more durable and long-lasting as compared to other nonwoven landscaping fabrics
  • Green stripes make it easy to lay and cut with scissors, and help in easy plant alignment
  • Suitable for various outdoor uses and easy to DIY the cloth size and shape

8. Purple Thyme – Premium Ground Cover Seeds

For those looking to add an adaptable ground cover to their landscape, the Creeping Thyme (Thymus Serpyllum) is a great option. This perennial herb is a popular choice for its ability to over-winter well in zones 4-9 and can handle moderate foot traffic. As a dwarf ground cover, it is often used to line flower beds or fill gaps between pavers on walkways.

With a net weight of 0.05 oz, this small packet contains approximately 8,000 tiny seeds that can cover a large area. When planting, it is important to press the seeds into the soil rather than covering them. Ensuring good contact between the seeds and soil will increase germination rates. It is best to sow seeds directly outdoors between May and August when temperatures are consistently in the high 60s or above. Dividing established plantings can also be done in March and April.

This low maintenance ground cover can make an excellent alternative to traditional lawns. However, please be advised that if purchasing from a seller other than Utopia Seeds, you may receive incorrect seeds. Creeping Thyme seeds are very small, so be prepared for a small packet.

Pros

  • Adaptive, popular and versatile dwarf ground cover
  • Can handle moderate foot traffic
  • Perennial herb that over-winters well in zones 4-9
  • Approximately 8,000 seeds can cover a large area
  • Good seed to soil contact increases germination rates
  • Can be sowed directly outdoors between May and August
  • Established plantings can be divided in March and April
  • Low maintenance ground cover
  • Excellent alternative to traditional lawns

Cons

  • – Seeds are very small and come in a small packet
  • – Fall plantings should be avoided to protect against freeze damage
  • – May receive incorrect seeds if purchasing from a seller other than Utopia Seeds

9. Warm Season Ground Cover Alternative – 5 Lb

Dichondra Repens is a fast-growing ground cover plant that is easy to establish from seeds. It has a creeping growth habit and circular leaves, and is a warm-season plant that grows best in USDA Zones 7-11. It can withstand winter temperatures as low as 20-25 degrees Fahrenheit and still maintain its striking green color with only slight leaf browning. This plant is a great alternative to traditional lawn grasses, as it only grows up to 2-3 inches tall and does not need to be mowed. It has broad, almost circular leaves that resemble clover and, when mowed low, establishes a thick, dense carpet look. Dichondra Repens has a bright green color and a soft feel underfoot, making it a popular choice for landscaping areas with no maintenance required. It is also commonly known as Kidney Weed, Dichondra Pony Foot, or Lawn Leaf.

This plant is versatile and can be used in many ground cover situations where normal grasses may not thrive. It is perfect for areas where low maintenance is desired, and it can be mowed for an even, smooth finish when used in lawn situations. To maintain the nicest appearance of Dichondra Repens, it is recommended to mow it approximately every two weeks during the summer months at a height of 1 1/2 – 2 inches. During the winter months, it can be mowed as low as 3/4 of an inch.

Pros

  • Easy to establish from seed
  • Warm-season plant that can withstand winter temperatures as low as 20-25 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Good alternative to traditional lawn grasses
  • Grows up to 2-3 inches tall and does not require mowing
  • Has a bright green color and a soft feel underfoot
  • Versatile and can be used in many ground cover situations
  • Low maintenance required

Cons

  • – May not thrive in cooler climates
  • – Not suitable for areas where a taller grass is desired

10. Sunny Square: Outdoor Shade Canopy

The Resistant Sun Sail is the perfect solution for protecting your loved ones, plants, and vehicles from the harmful effects of the sun. This shade sail is designed to block up to 95% of UV rays, thanks to the 100% high density polyethylene UV protected fabric.

This 10' x 10' Square sun shade sail canopy is versatile and can be used in various settings such as a patio, lawn, garden, swimming pool, BBQ areas, pond, deck, kailyard, courtyard, backyard, dooryard, park, carport, pergola, sandbox, driveway or any other outdoor area that requires shading.

The unique design of this sun sail features a permeable fabric that allows air to penetrate the outdoor patio sun shade sail, creating a comfortable and well-ventilated space for cooking, dining, and other outdoor activities. The breathable fabric also allows water to go through freely, preventing pooling water in rainy days. Additionally, all edges of the sun sail are slightly curved to prevent sagging in the middle.

Installing and maintaining this sun sail is effortless, as each corner is equipped with a durable stainless steel D-ring to help attach the rectangle sail shade easily to any sturdy connection point. The edges are constructed with double-layered reinforced stitched seams, preventing frayed edges and out of shape. This shade cloth is easy to clean with mild detergent and water. However, hardware kits and ropes are not included.

The Resistant Sun Sail comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. In case you are not satisfied with the product, you can return it within 30 days for a full refund, no question asked. The product also has a 1-year warranty under normal use and weather.

Pros

  • Blocks up to 95% of UV rays
  • Versatile and can be used in various settings
  • Permeable fabric design allows for proper airflow and ventilation
  • Prevents pooling water in rainy days
  • Effortless installation and maintenance
  • Comes with 100% satisfaction guarantee and 1-year warranty

Cons

  • – Hardware kits and ropes are not included

Best Ground Cover For Playground FAQs

How do you choose the right ground cover for a specific playground environment?

Choosing the right ground cover for a playground environment is crucial for ensuring the safety of children using the playground. The ground cover must be able to absorb impact from falls, provide adequate cushioning, and prevent injuries. There are several factors to consider when choosing the right ground cover for a specific playground environment.

Firstly, the age range of the children who will be using the playground must be taken into account. Younger children may require a softer ground cover such as sand or rubber mulch, while older children may benefit from a more durable ground cover such as synthetic turf or poured-in-place rubber.

The type of equipment on the playground must also be considered. Swings, slides, and climbing structures require different types of ground cover to ensure safety. For example, sand is not appropriate for areas around swings as it can cause tripping hazards and does not provide enough cushioning for falls.

The climate and weather conditions in the area must also be taken into account. Some ground covers may not be suitable for areas with heavy rainfall or extreme temperatures.

Lastly, the budget for the project must be considered. Some ground covers may be more expensive than others, and the cost of installation and maintenance should also be taken into account.

Overall, it is important to choose a ground cover that meets safety standards, is appropriate for the age range and equipment on the playground, and fits within the budget constraints of the project.

How does playground ground cover impact safety and injury prevention?

Playground ground cover is an essential component of playground safety and injury prevention. It serves as a cushioning material that absorbs shock and helps reduce the impact of falls, thereby minimizing the risk of serious injuries. The type of ground cover used on a playground can significantly impact the safety of children playing on it.

There are various types of playground ground covers available in the market such as wood chips, sand, pea gravel, rubber mulch, and poured-in-place rubber. Each material has its pros and cons, and the choice of ground cover depends on various factors like budget, maintenance requirements, and the age of the children using the playground.

For instance, wood chips are a popular choice for playground ground cover as they are affordable, easy to install, and provide good shock absorption. However, they require frequent maintenance and can attract insects and rodents, making them less hygienic. On the other hand, rubber mulch and poured-in-place rubber are more expensive but offer superior shock absorption and require less maintenance.

In conclusion, playground ground cover is an essential aspect of playground safety, and choosing the right type of ground cover can significantly impact the safety of children playing on it. Therefore, it is crucial to consider various factors while selecting a suitable ground cover for a playground to ensure maximum safety and injury prevention.

What are the best types of ground cover for a playground?

When it comes to choosing the best ground cover for a playground, safety should be the top priority. The ground cover should be able to absorb impacts and cushion falls, reducing the risk of injury to children. Some of the best options for playground ground cover include rubber mulch, pea gravel, and wood chips.

Rubber mulch is a popular choice for playgrounds because it is made from recycled tires and provides excellent shock absorption. It is also durable and low maintenance, making it a cost-effective option in the long run.

Pea gravel is another great option as it provides good drainage and is easy to maintain. It is also affordable and comes in a variety of colors to match the playground design.

Wood chips, made from shredded bark or wood, are a classic choice for playgrounds. They provide good cushioning and can be replenished easily. However, they do require regular maintenance to prevent splinters and rot.

Ultimately, the best ground cover for a playground will depend on various factors such as budget, maintenance requirements, and safety regulations. It is important to consult with a professional to ensure the safety of the children using the playground.

What are the cost considerations for different ground cover options for a playground?

When it comes to choosing the right ground cover for a playground, there are several cost considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, the initial installation cost of the ground cover material is an important factor. Options such as rubber mulch, poured-in-place rubber, and artificial turf tend to have higher upfront costs than alternatives like pea gravel, sand, or wood chips.

However, it's also important to consider the long-term maintenance costs associated with each option. While pea gravel and sand may be cheaper to install initially, they require frequent raking and topping up to maintain a safe and even surface. Wood chips can also require regular replacement as they decompose over time.

On the other hand, options like rubber mulch and poured-in-place rubber require less maintenance and can last longer, making them more cost-effective in the long run. Artificial turf may also have higher upfront costs, but it requires minimal maintenance and can last for many years.

Ultimately, the best ground cover option for a playground will depend on a variety of factors including budget, safety requirements, and maintenance capabilities. It's important to weigh the upfront and long-term costs of each option before making a decision.

What are the maintenance requirements for different types of playground ground cover?

Maintaining playground ground cover is crucial for ensuring the safety of children who use these areas. The maintenance requirements for different types of playground ground cover may vary depending on the type of material used.

For instance, rubber mulch requires regular raking to remove debris and ensure the surface remains even. It may also require replenishing after a certain period to maintain its thickness and cushioning properties.

On the other hand, artificial turf may require regular cleaning to remove debris and prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. Additionally, it may require brushing to maintain its softness and appearance.

Natural grass is also a popular ground cover for playgrounds, but it requires regular mowing, watering, and fertilization to remain healthy and safe for children.

No matter the type of playground ground cover, regular inspections are essential to ensure that it remains in good condition and free from hazards such as sharp objects, holes, or uneven surfaces. It is also important to follow manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance and replacement to ensure the longevity and efficacy of the ground cover.

Leave a Comment