Q.Chocolate mint growing in height but not spreading
I have chocolate and peppermint, neither likes full sun – period. They begin to die. Secondly, I am able to root cuttings. I then plant in large pots but, again, growing in height not width. Why? I am wanting it to spread, as I have an area I wish to plant for ground cover.

Here are a few links.
I grow quite a few mints, and I agree many tend to grow up first, then you will start to see runners being sent out from the plant.
These will spread out horizontally.
Be very carefully because all mints are very invasive.
Here are a few links.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/mint/how-to-grow-mint-plants-in-your-garden.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/mint/mint-plant-varieties.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/mint/growing-chocolate-mint-herb.htm