(Newswire.net — February 25, 2019) — People love the lush look that grass gives their back and front yards. Unfortunately, lawns can be a big burden for homeowners, which is why many people are seeking alternatives to grass in their front and back yard. The following are some popular cheap alternatives to grass lawn:
Cheap Alternatives to Grass Lawn
1. Ground Covers
Ground covers are any type of vegetation that sprawls across the ground but doesn’t grow tall. Ground covers are usually low maintenance plants that spread quickly, fills in pathways, and smothers weeds. Unlike grass, you won’t have to worry about mowing.
The layout of your landscape and climate you live in will determine the type of groundcovers that is best for your yard. Some common types of groundcovers include the Japanese sweet flag, Asian star jasmine, creeping Jenny, among others.
2. Corsican Mint
This is a fragrant herb that smells great and makes an excellent alternative to flowering grass. It has small, rounded green leaves that act as a lush background to its tiny purple flowers. Unlike other types of mint, Corsican mint is a slow creeper and you don’t have to worry about it taking over your backyard overnight. The best place to plant Corsican mint is where there is minimal traffic to avoid killing the plant.
3. Creeping Thyme
Unlike Corsican mint, creeping thyme is ideal for high traffic areas. It grows to about 2-4 inches high and requires no mowing. It also required minimal watering and will grow anywhere.
4. Clover
This is an easy-to-care-for plant that mostly was used as a cover crop to fix nitrogen levels in the soil but has now become a popular eco-friendly lawn alternative. Clover grows quickly, enriches the earth, suppresses weeds, and aerates the soil with its deep root system.
When newly planted, clover requires watering twice per day but once established, you don’t have to water it anymore. It stays green throughout the year without mowing or fertilization.
5. Artificial turf
This is as good as it gets when it comes to a zero maintenance, hassle free alternative to a grass lawn. You only need to install it and that’s it; no mowing, maintenance, watering, or fertilization is needed. This is typically preferred around and near pools.
6. Ornamental grasses
There are many varieties of ornamental grasses with different characteristics and requirements. The most popular type is the drought-resistant ornamental grass that grows well with no fertilization and little watering. Some ornamental grasses grow into attractive clumps of grass while others, such as fine fescues, develop closely together and become a smooth surface that looks like a traditional lawn. When choosing among ornamental grass varieties, go for the native types since they have already adapted to the climate are are likely to require the least maintenance.
7. Native Perennial Beds
These are made using native plants that have evolved for optimal survival in your ecosystem. Such plants provide food and shelter for local birds, bees and butterflies.
Before choosing one, ask a local gardener or any native plants expert for recommendations on the best native shrubs and flowers that will thrive in your area. Choose plants that don’t require pruning or stalking as they grow.
8. Evergreen Moss
Moss is a great lawn alternative since it grows well in any soil, thrives in the shade, and stays green year round. For those looking for a low maintenance option, moss is one of the best as it requires no mowing, watering, weeding, pest control, or fertilization.
With just a bit of planning and thoughtful planting, you can have a lush green yard that requires minimal maintenance and looks just as good, or even better than grass. These cheap alternatives to grass lawn are sure to enhance your back and front yard.