Most of the headings above fall into seven different categories. Let\u2019s explore each one to determine which approach is a good fit for your lawn, goals, and budget.<\/p>
1. The ornamental bed approach<\/h2> ![\"Ornamental](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_8059548416_221c9a0d46_c.jpg\")
Mike Finn | Flickr<\/a> | CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div> If you want to reduce your mowing time, increase the number of beds in your landscape. Installing flower beds or ornamental beds is a great way to decrease your lawn\u2019s footprint without sacrificing curb appeal. (You might even increase your curb appeal!)<\/p>
If you want to kill your grass to install a bed, you have a few options: Use a sod cutter, dig out the grass with a shovel, or do sheet mulching. Sheet mulching is an easy, eco-friendly method that kills the grass by removing light and air. You can do it in a few steps<\/a>:<\/p> - Mow down the grass.<\/li>
- Mark sprinkler heads.<\/li>
- Water the grass (to help with decomposition).<\/li>
- Dig up the grass within a foot of the driveway or walkways. (This prevents runoff and stops mulch from overflowing onto the hardscaping.)<\/li>
- Install large plants (five gallons or larger).<\/li>
- Lay cardboard or newspaper (several pages thick) as a weed barrier.<\/li>
- Water the weed barrier.<\/li>
- Add 2-5 inches of compost or mulch. (Some advise 6 inches or more<\/a>.)<\/li>
- Cut through the cardboard to install desired plantings.<\/li><\/ol>
Another approach that falls within this category is xeriscaping<\/strong>. Drought-resistant<\/strong> (or drought-tolerant) landscaping<\/strong> is a similar approach. These landscapes are frequently seen in the southwest United States and other arid locales. These lawns are sometimes completely devoid of grass and instead include cacti, succulents, and gravel or mulch ground cover. Other planting options include various species of agave, ornamental grasses, and other native plants.<\/p> Less extreme examples include replacing only part of your lawn with xeriscaping and leaving a small area of grass as a play area for the kids or the dog. In either case, it is a great method to reduce water use and mowing time.<\/p>
2. The edible bed approach<\/h2>
This is a subset of the ornamental bed approach. The idea is the same. The only difference is that you use edible plants instead of ornamentals.<\/p>
This approach works well if you\u2019re interested in converting some or all of your lawn into beds but are looking for a more practical outcome. Some gardeners take this to the extreme and convert entire lawns into edible raised bed areas with gravel walkways in between, for example. Others intersperse edibles within their ornamental beds to create an eclectic feel as edible plants and flowers grow side by side. <\/p>
If you are interested in this approach, there are countless vegetables, fruits, and herbs that function well in a standard or raised bed. Herbs love to live in beds and are a great stand-in for ornamental bushes. Fruit trees come in dwarf and standard varieties, making them a productive addition to a home landscape of any size. Chives and lettuces pair well with ornamental grasses. Lacinato kale is often used in ornamental beds because of its tall, textured look. (Even your HOA may approve.) <\/p>
Finally, don\u2019t forget about potted planters. Large pots can function as statement pieces for entryways and along walkways. Even some varieties of fruit trees work well in large pots.<\/p>
These are just a few ideas on how to make the idea of an edible landscaping bed more palatable. Be creative, and seek local advice<\/a> on what grows well in your area. <\/p> 3. The meadow approach<\/h2> ![\"Wild](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_belinda-fewings-6oflykv6xcu-unsplash.jpg\")
Belinda Fewings | Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div> If you\u2019ve ever wanted to flutter barefoot across your very own field of daisies or wild chamomile, now\u2019s your chance. While most homeowners won\u2019t convert an entire lawn to a meadow, this approach reduces mowable space with defined areas of wildflower plantings. Wildflowers<\/strong> are great for increasing biodiversity and creating food for valuable pollinator populations.<\/p> Contact your local garden center or Extension agent for advice on where to buy a wildflower seed mix that is suitable for your area. Also, ask your local gardening expert about any local regulations or weed laws<\/a> you need to be aware of.<\/p> 4. The ground cover approach<\/h2>
Ground cover plants are a popular way to reduce or replace grass in your lawn. Homeowners use ground cover to replace grass in between walkway stones and to function as a low-maintenance grass alternative<\/strong>. Most ground covers tolerate low amounts of foot traffic, but a few will tolerate heavier wear. Choose a variety that works well in your area and with your sun or shade requirements. Here are a few examples of popular ground cover plants:<\/p> - Ajuga (Bugleweed)<\/li>
- Asian Star Jasmine<\/li>
- Creeping Jenny<\/li>
- Creeping Juniper<\/li>
- Creeping Thyme<\/li>
- Dwarf Nandina<\/li>
- Kurapia<\/li>
- Liriope<\/li>
- Microclover (or traditional clover)<\/li>
- Mondo grasses or other native grasses<\/li>
- Moss<\/li>
- Sedge<\/li>
- Sedum <\/li>
- Small shrubs (great for ornamental beds) (Not a true \u201cground cover,\u201d but a great way to \u201ccover ground.\u201d)<\/li>
- Vinca Major and Vinca Minor<\/li><\/ul>
Note: Many of these plants include several different species from which to choose. Select the ones that work best for your climate and lawn.<\/p>
5. The artificial grass approach<\/h2> ![\"close-up](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_2621113826_86897778ee_c.jpg\")
alvizlo | Flickr<\/a> | CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div> When you think of ripping out your lawn, you might automatically think of installing artificial grass. Artificial grass (also called artificial turf) results in a true no-mow, low-maintenance lawn<\/strong>.<\/p> Golf enthusiasts often install artificial turf to practice their golf game. Other homeowners choose this approach because they want to eliminate mowing, fertilizing, weeding, and upkeep and retain a beautiful lawn year-round.<\/p>
There are several different manufacturers of artificial turf, each with different features and drawbacks. Be sure to do your homework to determine which brand meets your needs.<\/p>
Pros:<\/p>
\u2713 Allows for heavy foot traffic
\u2713 Fast installation
\u2713 No mowing
\u2713 No watering
\u2713 No chemicals
\u2713 Some brands are good for pets
\u2713 Hardy – can last for many years<\/p>
Cons:<\/p>
\u2717 Can be pricey
\u2717 Not allowed by all HOAs
\u2717 Not all brands are conducive for pets <\/p>
6. The no-mow approach<\/h2>
Seed mixes marketed as \u201cNo-Mow\u201d usually require some mowing. Think of these as grasses that require less<\/em> mowing and maintenance than a standard Kentucky bluegrass, for example. <\/p> These seed mixes are commonly made with bentgrass<\/a> or a mix of fine fescues<\/a>. How often you mow will depend on the seed mix instructions. One fine fescue mix states that once the lawn is established, most customers mow once per year<\/a>. These mixes are usually only recommended for cool-season or transitional zone lawns.<\/p> California Buffalograss claims to need only two mowings per year<\/a> for a \u201cmeadow\u201d look or every three to four weeks<\/a> for a more trimmed look. This grass has been specially bred for dry California and Arizona climates. For other southern climates, no-mow mixes are harder to find. If you live in the South, consider the other approaches listed in this article for a low-maintenance lawn.<\/p> 7. The hardscaping approach<\/h2> ![\"Large](\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_5268080572_e21954bb20_c.jpg\")
Field Outdoor Spaces | Flickr<\/a> | CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div> If you want to reduce your mowable space, consider adding hardscaping to your property. Add these elements to increase outdoor living space and reduce or eliminate the grass:<\/p>
- Athletic courts: tennis, basketball, volleyball<\/li>
- Fire pits or fireplaces<\/li>
- Outdoor kitchens<\/li>
- Patios<\/li>
- Pools<\/li>
- Ponds or water features<\/li>
- Walkways<\/li><\/ul>
Hardscaping is usually a significant financial investment. If you were planning to invest anyway, consider the lower grass maintenance costs as an additional long-term benefit.<\/p>
Other considerations<\/h2>
When you are deciding which approach will best reduce or eliminate the grass in your lawn, consider these things:<\/p>
- What are your sunlight\/shade requirements?<\/li>
- Do you have erosion control concerns or slopes?<\/li>
- Do you have pets?<\/li>
- What kind of maintenance will your lawn alternative require?<\/li>
- How much do you want to spend?<\/li><\/ul>
Pros and cons<\/h2>
If you are considering an alternative to traditional turf grasses, there are a host of reasons to make the switch. To be fair, you\u2019ll want to consider the potential cons as well.<\/p>
Pros:<\/p>
\u2713 Less water usage
\u2713 Fewer (or zero) pesticides or herbicides
\u2713 Less money spent on water and chemicals
\u2713 Fewer concerns about weeding or a \u201cperfect lawn\u201d
\u2713 Increased biodiversity (especially in pollinator gardens)
\u2713 More visual interest and added color (especially with flowering plants)
\u2713 Increased habitat for wildlife and pollinators
\u2713 No more (or reduced) mowing
\u2713 Less fertilization
\u2713 Less time (or money) on maintenance
\u2713 Some cities offer rebates for low-water lawns
\u2713 There are lawn alternatives suited to full sun, part-shade, and shady areas
\u2713 There are lawn alternatives suited for any climate
\u2713 Adds dimension to your yard
\u2713 Increases curb appeal<\/p>
Cons:<\/p>
\u2717 Some grass alternatives may not be allowed by your HOA
\u2717 Won\u2019t have that \u201ctraditional lawn\u201d look <\/p>
Try one, or combine approaches<\/h2>
These six different categories are there to guide you into an approach that works well for your lawn. Most homeowners will combine several of these options to come up with solutions that suit them. For example, you may want to keep some grass but incorporate more ornamental beds into your front yard. Your backyard may be suitable as a partial wildflower or pollinator area. Whatever your lawn care goals, these approaches can help you meet them. <\/p>
Create a low-maintenance landscape <\/h2>
If you\u2019ve grown weary of mowing, edging, blowing, and fertilizing your lawn, these grass alternatives may be viable options for saving you time, money, and hassle. Grass is not the only way to landscape your property. These six alternatives allow for less upkeep without sacrificing beauty or functionality. <\/p>
If you\u2019d prefer to leave this job in the hands of an expert, don\u2019t hesitate to contact a professional<\/a> today to help you explore your landscape design options for a grass-free lawn.<\/p>
If you want to reduce your mowing time, increase the number of beds in your landscape. Installing flower beds or ornamental beds is a great way to decrease your lawn\u2019s footprint without sacrificing curb appeal. (You might even increase your curb appeal!)<\/p>
If you want to kill your grass to install a bed, you have a few options: Use a sod cutter, dig out the grass with a shovel, or do sheet mulching. Sheet mulching is an easy, eco-friendly method that kills the grass by removing light and air. You can do it in a few steps<\/a>:<\/p> Another approach that falls within this category is xeriscaping<\/strong>. Drought-resistant<\/strong> (or drought-tolerant) landscaping<\/strong> is a similar approach. These landscapes are frequently seen in the southwest United States and other arid locales. These lawns are sometimes completely devoid of grass and instead include cacti, succulents, and gravel or mulch ground cover. Other planting options include various species of agave, ornamental grasses, and other native plants.<\/p> Less extreme examples include replacing only part of your lawn with xeriscaping and leaving a small area of grass as a play area for the kids or the dog. In either case, it is a great method to reduce water use and mowing time.<\/p> This is a subset of the ornamental bed approach. The idea is the same. The only difference is that you use edible plants instead of ornamentals.<\/p> This approach works well if you\u2019re interested in converting some or all of your lawn into beds but are looking for a more practical outcome. Some gardeners take this to the extreme and convert entire lawns into edible raised bed areas with gravel walkways in between, for example. Others intersperse edibles within their ornamental beds to create an eclectic feel as edible plants and flowers grow side by side. <\/p> If you are interested in this approach, there are countless vegetables, fruits, and herbs that function well in a standard or raised bed. Herbs love to live in beds and are a great stand-in for ornamental bushes. Fruit trees come in dwarf and standard varieties, making them a productive addition to a home landscape of any size. Chives and lettuces pair well with ornamental grasses. Lacinato kale is often used in ornamental beds because of its tall, textured look. (Even your HOA may approve.) <\/p> Finally, don\u2019t forget about potted planters. Large pots can function as statement pieces for entryways and along walkways. Even some varieties of fruit trees work well in large pots.<\/p> These are just a few ideas on how to make the idea of an edible landscaping bed more palatable. Be creative, and seek local advice<\/a> on what grows well in your area. <\/p> If you\u2019ve ever wanted to flutter barefoot across your very own field of daisies or wild chamomile, now\u2019s your chance. While most homeowners won\u2019t convert an entire lawn to a meadow, this approach reduces mowable space with defined areas of wildflower plantings. Wildflowers<\/strong> are great for increasing biodiversity and creating food for valuable pollinator populations.<\/p> Contact your local garden center or Extension agent for advice on where to buy a wildflower seed mix that is suitable for your area. Also, ask your local gardening expert about any local regulations or weed laws<\/a> you need to be aware of.<\/p> Ground cover plants are a popular way to reduce or replace grass in your lawn. Homeowners use ground cover to replace grass in between walkway stones and to function as a low-maintenance grass alternative<\/strong>. Most ground covers tolerate low amounts of foot traffic, but a few will tolerate heavier wear. Choose a variety that works well in your area and with your sun or shade requirements. Here are a few examples of popular ground cover plants:<\/p> Note: Many of these plants include several different species from which to choose. Select the ones that work best for your climate and lawn.<\/p> When you think of ripping out your lawn, you might automatically think of installing artificial grass. Artificial grass (also called artificial turf) results in a true no-mow, low-maintenance lawn<\/strong>.<\/p> Golf enthusiasts often install artificial turf to practice their golf game. Other homeowners choose this approach because they want to eliminate mowing, fertilizing, weeding, and upkeep and retain a beautiful lawn year-round.<\/p> There are several different manufacturers of artificial turf, each with different features and drawbacks. Be sure to do your homework to determine which brand meets your needs.<\/p> Pros:<\/p> \u2713 Allows for heavy foot traffic Cons:<\/p> \u2717 Can be pricey Seed mixes marketed as \u201cNo-Mow\u201d usually require some mowing. Think of these as grasses that require less<\/em> mowing and maintenance than a standard Kentucky bluegrass, for example. <\/p> These seed mixes are commonly made with bentgrass<\/a> or a mix of fine fescues<\/a>. How often you mow will depend on the seed mix instructions. One fine fescue mix states that once the lawn is established, most customers mow once per year<\/a>. These mixes are usually only recommended for cool-season or transitional zone lawns.<\/p> California Buffalograss claims to need only two mowings per year<\/a> for a \u201cmeadow\u201d look or every three to four weeks<\/a> for a more trimmed look. This grass has been specially bred for dry California and Arizona climates. For other southern climates, no-mow mixes are harder to find. If you live in the South, consider the other approaches listed in this article for a low-maintenance lawn.<\/p> If you want to reduce your mowable space, consider adding hardscaping to your property. Add these elements to increase outdoor living space and reduce or eliminate the grass:<\/p> Hardscaping is usually a significant financial investment. If you were planning to invest anyway, consider the lower grass maintenance costs as an additional long-term benefit.<\/p> When you are deciding which approach will best reduce or eliminate the grass in your lawn, consider these things:<\/p> If you are considering an alternative to traditional turf grasses, there are a host of reasons to make the switch. To be fair, you\u2019ll want to consider the potential cons as well.<\/p> Pros:<\/p> \u2713 Less water usage Cons:<\/p> \u2717 Some grass alternatives may not be allowed by your HOA These six different categories are there to guide you into an approach that works well for your lawn. Most homeowners will combine several of these options to come up with solutions that suit them. For example, you may want to keep some grass but incorporate more ornamental beds into your front yard. Your backyard may be suitable as a partial wildflower or pollinator area. Whatever your lawn care goals, these approaches can help you meet them. <\/p> If you\u2019ve grown weary of mowing, edging, blowing, and fertilizing your lawn, these grass alternatives may be viable options for saving you time, money, and hassle. Grass is not the only way to landscape your property. These six alternatives allow for less upkeep without sacrificing beauty or functionality. <\/p> If you\u2019d prefer to leave this job in the hands of an expert, don\u2019t hesitate to contact a professional<\/a> today to help you explore your landscape design options for a grass-free lawn.<\/p> 2. The edible bed approach<\/h2>
3. The meadow approach<\/h2>
4. The ground cover approach<\/h2>
5. The artificial grass approach<\/h2>
\u2713 Fast installation
\u2713 No mowing
\u2713 No watering
\u2713 No chemicals
\u2713 Some brands are good for pets
\u2713 Hardy – can last for many years<\/p>
\u2717 Not allowed by all HOAs
\u2717 Not all brands are conducive for pets <\/p> 6. The no-mow approach<\/h2>
7. The hardscaping approach<\/h2>
Other considerations<\/h2>
Pros and cons<\/h2>
\u2713 Fewer (or zero) pesticides or herbicides
\u2713 Less money spent on water and chemicals
\u2713 Fewer concerns about weeding or a \u201cperfect lawn\u201d
\u2713 Increased biodiversity (especially in pollinator gardens)
\u2713 More visual interest and added color (especially with flowering plants)
\u2713 Increased habitat for wildlife and pollinators
\u2713 No more (or reduced) mowing
\u2713 Less fertilization
\u2713 Less time (or money) on maintenance
\u2713 Some cities offer rebates for low-water lawns
\u2713 There are lawn alternatives suited to full sun, part-shade, and shady areas
\u2713 There are lawn alternatives suited for any climate
\u2713 Adds dimension to your yard
\u2713 Increases curb appeal<\/p>
\u2717 Won\u2019t have that \u201ctraditional lawn\u201d look <\/p> Try one, or combine approaches<\/h2>
Create a low-maintenance landscape <\/h2>