{"id":14106,"date":"2022-12-08T21:35:09","date_gmt":"2022-12-08T21:35:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/?p=14106"},"modified":"2026-08-07T23:51:23","modified_gmt":"2026-08-07T23:51:23","slug":"low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas\/","title":{"rendered":"13 Low-Maintenance Landscaping Ideas"},"content":{"rendered":"<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Key takeaways<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>\u2022 <strong>Replace high-maintenance plants<\/strong> with drought-tolerant natives, perennials, and low-maintenance grasses.<br>\u2022 <strong>Hardscaping<\/strong> (retaining walls, paths, raised beds) reduces the area you need to mow and weed.<br>\u2022 <strong>Mulch is one of the simplest upgrades<\/strong>: it suppresses weeds, retains soil moisture, and costs $2 to $13 per bag.<br>\u2022 <strong>Xeriscaping uses drought-tolerant plants<\/strong>, drip irrigation, and smart plant grouping to cut outdoor water use dramatically.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you want a beautiful yard without spending every weekend maintaining it, low-maintenance landscaping is the answer. Swapping in native plants, drought-tolerant grasses, and hardscape features can dramatically cut your workload \u2014 whether you&#8217;re looking for low-maintenance front yard ideas, easy-care backyard ideas, or a complete overhaul.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;d rather hand the design off entirely, Lawn Love can connect you with <a href=\"http:\/\/lawnlove.com\">local landscaping professionals<\/a> who can build your easy-care outdoor space from the ground up.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are 13 ideas to make your landscaping low-maintenance.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-bc694b44-00ac-4dbf-9f4a-20fcc8fdb349\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\">I<strong>n this article:<\/strong><\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas\/#0-1-choose-low-maintenance-flowers-and-plants\" style=\"\">1. Choose low-maintenance flowers and plants<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas\/#1-2-switch-out-annuals-for-perennials\" style=\"\">2. Switch out annuals for perennials<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas\/#2-3-grow-native-plants\" style=\"\">3. Grow native plants<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas\/#3-4-grow-low-maintenance-turfgrass\" style=\"\">4. Grow low-maintenance turfgrass<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas\/#4-5-opt-for-grass-alternatives\" style=\"\">5. Opt for grass alternatives<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas\/#5-6-add-trees\" style=\"\">6. Add trees<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas\/#6-7-install-hardscaping\" style=\"\">7. Install hardscaping<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas\/#7-8-take-up-container-gardening\" style=\"\">8. Take up container gardening<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas\/#8-9-switch-to-automatic-irrigation\" style=\"\">9. Switch to automatic irrigation<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas\/#9-10-look-into-xeriscaping\" style=\"\">10. Look into xeriscaping<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas\/#10-11-cover-bare-soil-with-mulch\" style=\"\">11. Cover bare soil with mulch<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas\/#11-12-replace-your-hedges\" style=\"\">12. Replace your hedges<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas\/#12-13-space-plants-closer-together\" style=\"\">13. Space plants closer together<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/low-maintenance-landscaping-ideas\/#13-faqs\" style=\"\">FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 id=\"0-1-choose-low-maintenance-flowers-and-plants\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"1-choose-low-maintenance-flowers-and-plants\">1. Choose low-maintenance flowers and plants<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The easiest way to cut yard work is to start with plants that don&#8217;t need much of it. Low-maintenance plants typically require minimal water, little to no fertilizer, and no regular pruning or deadheading.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are some great options:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Succulents<\/strong> have thick, fleshy leaves that store water and grow well in rocky or sandy soil. They thrive with plenty of sunlight and only need watering when the soil is bone dry.<\/li>    <li><strong>Rhododendrons<\/strong> are naturally resistant to pests and many diseases. Once established, they require little care and produce beautiful blooms.<\/li>    <li><strong>Lavender<\/strong> thrives in full sun, needs minimal watering, and resists diseases and pests. It smells great, too.<\/li>    <li><strong>Hydrangeas<\/strong> add long-lasting beauty to partial or shady spots. Different species suit different climates, so do a bit of research to find the right fit for your garden.<\/li>    <li><strong>Daylilies<\/strong> are extremely hardy, surviving drought and harsh conditions with very few pest or disease problems.<\/li>    <li><strong>Knock-out roses<\/strong> come in a range of colors, need very little pruning, and self-clean by dropping spent petals, so you never need to deadhead.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pet and child safety note:<\/strong> Rhododendrons are toxic to pets and kids. Daylilies are toxic to cats, and hydrangeas are toxic to dogs and cats. Check the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aspca.org\/pet-care\/animal-poison-control\/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ASPCA&#8217;s toxic plant database<\/a> before planting.<\/p>    <h2 id=\"1-2-switch-out-annuals-for-perennials\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"2-switch-out-annuals-for-perennials\">2. Switch out annuals for perennials<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Perennials live for multiple seasons, so once established, you skip the whole spring replanting cycle. No flats of flowers, no extra digging, no soil prep. They cost more upfront than annuals, but pay off over several years.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are many perennials to choose from. Plant a mix that blooms at different times, and you can keep garden beds colorful from spring through fall with minimal effort.<\/p>    <h2 id=\"2-3-grow-native-plants\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"3-grow-native-plants\">3. Grow native plants<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006194-1.jpg\" alt=\"A front yard pollinator garden with native perennial plants and leaf mulch in early spring, featuring a yellow butterfly habitat sign.\" class=\"wp-image-46448\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006194-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006194-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006194-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006194-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006194-1-610x458.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A front yard pollinator garden with native plants. Photo Credit: Amy Stenglein \/ Lawn Love<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Native plants are adapted to your local climate, soil, and rainfall, so they need far less water and fertilizer than non-native species. They also support local pollinators and biodiversity. The key in every climate is matching plants to your local conditions.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common low-maintenance natives include purple coneflower and black-eyed Susan in the East, California poppy and ceanothus in the West, and Texas sage and Mexican feathergrass in the Southwest. Your state&#8217;s cooperative extension service or the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nwf.org\/NativePlantFinder\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">National Wildlife Federation&#8217;s Native Plant Finder<\/a> can help you identify species suited to your area.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Native plants are not low maintenance. Maybe lower maintenance,&#8221; Jo Ellen Meyers Sharp, award-winning garden writer and <a href=\"https:\/\/hoosiergardener.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Hoosier Gardener<\/a>, says. &#8220;You need to be mindful that native plants are living things, and once they&#8217;re established, like, two or three years, you might have less work with them.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/reasons-to-grow-native-plants\/\">Reasons You Should Grow Native Plants<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"3-4-grow-low-maintenance-turfgrass\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"4-grow-low-maintenance-turfgrass\">4. Grow low-maintenance turfgrass<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you want a traditional lawn with less work, choose a grass type built for durability. Warm-season grasses in particular tend to be more drought-tolerant and require less mowing.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Grass type<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Mowing frequency<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Best for<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Zoysiagrass (warm-season)<\/td><td>Every 7 to 14 days<\/td><td>High-traffic lawns, heat zones<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Bermudagrass (warm-season)<\/td><td>Every 5 to 7 days<\/td><td>Hot, sunny climates<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Buffalograss (warm-season)<\/td><td>Every 2 to 3 weeks<\/td><td>Dry, low-water regions<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Bahiagrass (warm-season)<\/td><td>Every 1 to 2 weeks<\/td><td>Sandy or poor soils<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Tall fescue (cool-season)<\/td><td>Every 7 to 10 days<\/td><td>Shade, transitional climates<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/best-drought-tolerant-grasses\/\">Top Drought-Tolerant Grasses for Your Yard<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"4-5-opt-for-grass-alternatives\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"5-opt-for-grass-alternatives\">5. Opt for grass alternatives<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can also replace your lawn with something that needs almost no upkeep. <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/landscaping-grass-alternatives\/\">Grass alternatives<\/a> can dramatically cut your regular yard work:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Gravel or rock:<\/strong> It still needs occasional raking to <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-remove-leaves-from-mulch-beds\/\">remove leaves from mulch beds<\/a> and hand-pulling weeds, but it&#8217;s far less work than a traditional lawn.<\/li>    <li><strong>Artificial turfgrass:<\/strong> Today&#8217;s options are realistic, and <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/artificial-grass-cost\/\">artificial grass costs<\/a> <strong>$5.45 to $20 per square foot <\/strong>installed. Looks like a real lawn but needs no mowing or watering, and holds up to all activities and weather.<\/li>    <li><strong>Wildflower meadow:<\/strong> Seed or mat your yard with native grasses and wildflowers adapted to your local conditions and let them naturalize to <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-create-pollinator-lawn\/\">create a pollinator lawn<\/a>.<\/li>    <li><strong>Ground cover plants:<\/strong> Clover, rupturewort, bugle, and certain species of thyme spread across the ground and keep it covered without any mowing. There are many <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/ground-cover-flowers\/\">ground-cover flower<\/a> options to choose from.<\/li>    <li><strong>Deck over it:<\/strong> Covering a small to medium backyard with a deck eliminates lawn maintenance in that space. The average <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/deck-cost\/\">cost to build a deck<\/a> is about <strong>$21 per square foot.<\/strong><\/li>    <li><strong>Rock garden:<\/strong> Visually striking and far easier to maintain than a lawn, you can <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-build-a-rock-garden\/\">build a rock garden<\/a> that reduces your total planting area without stripping the yard bare.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/drought-tolerant-landscaping-ideas\/\">Drought-Tolerant Landscaping Ideas<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"5-6-add-trees\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"6-add-trees\">6. Add trees<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Well-chosen trees are among the lowest-maintenance additions you can make to a yard. Some easy-care options include:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Japanese maples<\/strong> are beautiful, low-maintenance trees that add color to your landscaping once established.<\/li>    <li><strong>Serviceberry<\/strong> is another low-maintenance option that also produces edible fruit.<\/li>    <li><strong>Crape myrtle<\/strong> tolerates heat and drought and thrives in many soil types.<\/li>    <li><strong>Magnolia trees<\/strong> are stunning in bloom and require very little ongoing care.<\/li>    <li><strong>Jacaranda<\/strong> thrives in warm areas with lots of sun. Once established, it resists pests, diseases, and drought.<\/li>    <li><strong>Redbud<\/strong> is a great choice for smaller yards. It grows fast and handles heat, drought, insects, and disease.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Keep mulch a few inches back from the base to prevent crown rot, root rot, and vole activity.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/best-flowering-trees\/\">Best Flowering Trees for Your Landscape<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-mulch-around-trees\/\">How to Mulch Around Trees<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"6-7-install-hardscaping\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"7-install-hardscaping\">7. Install hardscaping<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006228-1.jpg\" alt=\"A lush, terraced front yard garden on a slope with dense ground cover plants, rocks, and ornamental grasses leading up to a house, with a sidewalk along the edge.\" class=\"wp-image-46443\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006228-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006228-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006228-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006228-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006228-1-610x458.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A terraced front yard on a slope filled with ground cover plants and rocks instead of a traditional grass lawn. Photo Credit: Amy Stenglein \/ Lawn Love<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hardscape features replace plantable space with surfaces that need almost no maintenance. It&#8217;s one of the most direct ways to cut yard work without giving up curb appeal.<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Retaining walls<\/strong> reduce the area you need to mow and trim while protecting plants and lawn from erosion.<\/li>    <li><strong>Raised flower beds<\/strong> cut down on the area you have to mow and typically reduce weed growth, pest problems, and diseases compared to in-ground beds.<\/li>    <li><strong>Garden paths<\/strong> of gravel, paver stones, or other materials eliminate grass in high-traffic areas and give you a route to stroll through your yard.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/retaining-wall-cost\/\">How Much Does a Retaining Wall Cost<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-build-a-raised-garden-bed\/\">How to Build a Raised Garden Bed in 10 Steps<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-build-a-gravel-path\/\">How to Build a Gravel Path<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"7-8-take-up-container-gardening\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"8-take-up-container-gardening\">8. Take up container gardening<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Container gardening lets you grow plants in pots rather than in the ground. It&#8217;s easier to manage, easy to update, and perfect for patios, balconies, or small spaces where a full garden bed isn&#8217;t practical.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-start-container-garden\/\">How to Start a Container Garden<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"8-9-switch-to-automatic-irrigation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"9-switch-to-automatic-irrigation\">9. Switch to automatic irrigation<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An automatic sprinkler or drip irrigation system handles your watering on a set schedule, taking the daily or weekly task of hand-watering off your plate. Outside of initial installation and seasonal maintenance, the system runs itself.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Drip irrigation delivers water directly to plant roots instead of broadcasting it across the surface.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dean Minchillo, Urban Water Program specialist at <a href=\"https:\/\/agrilifeextension.tamu.edu\/\">Texas A&amp;M AgriLife Extension<\/a>, says, \u201cShallow watering leads to shallow roots, which dry out quickly in the summer and reduce lawn quality.\u201d The same applies to any planting bed.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-install-a-lawn-sprinkler-system\/\">How to Install an In-Ground Lawn Sprinkler System<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/sprinkler-system-maintenance-checklist\/\">Sprinkler and Irrigation System Maintenance Checklist<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/sprinkler-system-cost\/\">How Much Does it Cost to Install a Sprinkler System<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"9-10-look-into-xeriscaping\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"10-look-into-xeriscaping\">10. Look into xeriscaping<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006327-1.jpg\" alt=\"A xeriscape front yard slope covered with dark gravel and scattered ornamental shrubs and evergreens, replacing a traditional grass lawn.\" class=\"wp-image-46507\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006327-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006327-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006327-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006327-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006327-1-610x458.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A drought-tolerant xeriscape front yard. Photo Credit: Amy Stenglein \/ Lawn Love<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Xeriscaping replaces traditional lawns with drought-tolerant plants, soil, rocks, mulch, and native species to dramatically reduce or nearly eliminate the need for irrigation. It\u2019s as close to zero-maintenance landscaping as most yards can get. According to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/watersense\/statistics-and-facts\">EPA&#8217;s WaterSense program<\/a>, up to 50% of outdoor irrigation water is wasted through evaporation, wind, and runoff.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/xeriscaping-guide-for-lawn-and-garden\/\">What is Xeriscaping?<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/best-xeriscaping-plants\/\">Best Xeriscaping Plants for Your Landscape<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"10-11-cover-bare-soil-with-mulch\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"11-cover-bare-soil-with-mulch\">11. Cover bare soil with mulch<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The single biggest time-saver in a low-maintenance yard is mulch. A 2- to 3-inch layer in your beds blocks sunlight to suppress weeds, retains soil moisture so you water less often, moderates soil temperature, and reduces erosion.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common options include wood chips, shredded bark, and pine straw. On average, bagged <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/mulch-cost\/\">mulch costs<\/a> <strong>$2 to $13 per bag<\/strong>, while bulk delivery and installation run<strong> $72 to $87 per cubic yard.<\/strong> You can often find free mulch through local tree services or municipal programs.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/benefits-of-mulch\/\">Benefits of Mulch<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-deep-should-mulch-be\/\">How Deep Should Mulch Be?<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/mulch-calculator\/\">Mulch Calculator: How Much Mulch Do I Need?<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"11-12-replace-your-hedges\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"12-replace-your-hedges\">12. Replace your hedges<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">High-maintenance hedge plants like laurel, arborvitae, and western red cedar need regular trimming to keep their shape. If you want a privacy screen or living fence with minimal upkeep, swap those hedges out for ornamental grasses.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fountain grass, panic grass, and purple needlegrass are all drought-tolerant options that maintain their shape naturally, which may eliminate regular pruning and watering.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-care-for-ornamental-grass\/\">How to Care for Ornamental Grass<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"12-13-space-plants-closer-together\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"13-space-plants-closer-together\">13. Space plants closer together<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Putting flowering plants, shrubs, and ornamental grasses slightly closer together than recommended shades the soil between them, which reduces weed germination and helps retain moisture. Less weeding and less watering with no extra effort.<\/p>    <h2 id=\"13-faqs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"faqs\">FAQs<\/span><\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1779283061497\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How long does it take for a low-maintenance landscape to establish?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Most low-maintenance landscapes are fully established within 3 years. Perennials, native plants, and ground covers follow a simple pattern: sleep (year 1), creep (year 2), leap (year 3). Year 3 is when they fill in and start working for you.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1779283074039\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Does low-maintenance landscaping work in any climate?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes. Low-maintenance landscaping works in every climate, though the approach changes by region. In arid areas, xeriscaping with drought-tolerant plants and gravel cuts irrigation to almost nothing. In wetter climates, native plants and perennials thrive with minimal input once established.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1779283085306\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Will low-maintenance landscaping hurt my home&#8217;s resale value?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No. A well-designed low-maintenance yard improves resale value rather than hurting it. Attractive hardscaping, healthy plants, and tidy mulched beds signal care to buyers. Gravel, native plants, or artificial turf can boost curb appeal in drought-prone areas.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 id=\"14-make-your-landscaping-work-easier-on-you\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"make-your-landscaping-work-easier-on-you\">Make your landscaping work easier on you<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A beautiful yard doesn&#8217;t require constant work. Swap in drought-tolerant natives, cover beds with mulch, let perennials and bulbs come back on their own, and replace unused patches with hardscape or ground cover. You&#8217;ll have an attractive yard with minimal upkeep year-round.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you&#8217;re ready to go bigger, Lawn Love can connect you with <a href=\"http:\/\/lawnlove.com\">local landscaping professionals<\/a> who know your region, your soil, and what works. Get a free instant quote and let someone else do the heavy lifting.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/organic-lawn-care-how-to-grow-chemical-free-grass\/\">Organic Lawn Care: How to Grow Chemical-Free Grass<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/u\/2\/d\/1r-gXTi6Pmw6S_COtaIrRnhgUPGSXzkIRMEErsx9nCOA\/edit\">What Are the Different Types of Soil Amendments for Your Lawn?<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/where-to-find-free-mulch\/\">Where to Find Free Mulch<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main Image: Ground cover plants replace a traditional grass lawn on a front yard slope. Photo Credit: Amy Stenglein \/ Lawn Love<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Make your landscaping low-maintenance by incorporating one of our 13 great ideas like using native plants or installing automatic irrigation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":96,"featured_media":46509,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[298],"tags":[222,147],"class_list":["post-14106","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-landscaping","tag-landscaping","tag-lawn-care"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/1000006226-1-1.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Amanda Shiffler","author_link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/author\/amanda-shiffler\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14106","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/96"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14106"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14106\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":48238,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14106\/revisions\/48238"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/46509"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14106"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14106"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14106"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}