These grass lawn alternatives offer lower maintenance while still looking beautiful.
Grass alternatives are gaining popularity because turf grass requires a lot ofeffort to keep it looking lush.
They needregular mowing to keep them looking tidy.
Credit: Holly Lepere
If maintenance also involves using pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, these chemicals can harm people and the environment.
Instead, consider these four grass alternatives experts say can offerplenty of curb appeal with less maintenance.
The ideal option truly depends on what you’d rather do outdoors instead of cutting and watering the lawn.
Credit: Gabriela Herman
Landscape gravel or pebbles come in different washes and colors.
These synthetic fibers look like grass, but they aren’t.
The fibers themselves come in different blade shapes, like oval, diamond, W, and V formations.
Credit: Laurie Black
Artificial turf is durable, making it perfect for an outdoor football or soccer game.
One of Giambalvo’s favorite choices is turkey tangle fogfruit (Phyla nodiflora).
Also called matgrass and carpetweed, these colorful names hint at what it looks like.
Fogfruit ishardy in Zones 7-11and is evergreen in warmer southern climates.
“These plants have evolved in the local climate and tend to be very hardy and drought tolerant.
They need little supplemental water once established.
Grass Alternative Considerations
There are a lot ofgrass alternativesfor yards to choose from.
So whether you’re eyeing permeable pavers or green leafy vegetables, there are a few things to remember.
Water sources and weather around your home are essential factors to consider.
Embrace the change by adding native plants andbird feedersto the yard to further enhance your little wildlife habitat.
Last, before making significant changes, verify thatyour landscaping plansare permitted in your area.
Homeowners associations and local ordinances may restrict vegetation height or percentage of grass on the property.
Avoid fines and upset neighbors by checking the rules beforehand.
