These do not need very much maintenance and hardly any mowing (if at all), but they are not as hard wearing as grass, so are not suitable for a play area for children.

Possible alternatives

• Chamomile 'Treneague' is a non-flowering type. Weed the area frequently and be prepared to replant areas which die out at intervals. Mow lightly to keep tidy.
• Pennyroyal is a small-leaved type of mint - chose the prostrate form. No mowing necessary.
• Clover ( Trifolium pratense ) is red flowered, non-spreading, and available as seed (from Chiltern Seeds). Make sure you order the native species, not the agricultural type that is too tall growing for a lawn. The disadvantage is that the seed may be contaminated with white clover, which spreads and is difficult to eradicate once established. Clover also attracts bees, which you may not want underfoot. May need to mow lightly.
• Pearlwort (common in our part of Cheshire) is a mossy-looking plant is regarded as a weed when found in flower beds. It prefers damp, acidic conditions.
• New Zealand brass buttons ( Cotula squalida ) - a carpeting ferny-leaved plant that is green in summer, bronze in winter, and has hardly noticeable yellow flowers in early summer. No mowing necessary.