One of the reasons many lawns use so much water is that the planted grass is not the best fit for the region where it grows. When replacing a water-thirsty lawn, consider alternative native grasses. Drought-tolerant options include buffalo grass, Bermuda grass, bahiagrass, and blue grama. The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin, Texas, de...See full list on bobvila.comVeronica, or Speedwell, is a diverse, sturdy, and evergreen ground cover option for homeowners seeking grass replacement. Once the low-grower (1 to 2 inches high) spreads, it forms a dense cover of small, succulent-like leaves and late spring to early summer flowers. Veronica Snowmass (Blue-eyed Speedwell) loads up with tiny white-petaled flowers w...See full list on bobvila.comFor a simple solution to neglected areas of the yard—like those strips of grass along the side of the house ,and shady areas—replace your grass with gravel. Gravel mulch is effective around plants that love heat and can tolerate low water. With some creativity, you can add color or patterns with crushed fine or pea gravel, creating a useful path at...See full list on bobvila.comConverting an awkward area of the lawn into a vegetable and herb garden with raised planters provides a variety of benefits: You will likely save water on growing vegetables by filling the raised beds with soil that’s more suited to the plants than local soils offer. Instead of wasting water spraying the sidewalk next to a strangely shaped portion ...See full list on bobvila.comWhen it comes to grass replacement for shady areas of the landscape, it’s hard to beat bugleweed (Ajuga reptans). Its alternative name of Carpet Bugle gives a clue to how well this flowering ground cover spreads by runners. Amazingly, bugleweed can grow in spots with full sun, but it actually performs better in shade. Plant this evergreen to semi-e...See full list on bobvila.comOrganic mulches like cedar or pine bark chips can replace grass quite easily for a rustic ground cover. Plus, organic mulch eventually breaks down to improve soil health below. A 3- to 4-inch layer of mulch cuts down on weeds and reduces the amount of water needed by trees or other plants it surrounds. Before you lay the mulch down, place permeable...See full list on bobvila.comHome chefs, why not replace your grass with some ground covers that double as kitchen staples and pollinator magnets? Many of the plants in this list are herbs and can spread prolifically (sometimes too much, in the case of mint). Take time to research those that are edible and grow in your area for a lawn-turned-herb-garden. Greek oregano is cold-...See full list on bobvila.comTired of mowing? Turn your backyard into a hardscaped jungle with a lovely new patio, walkway, or other hardscaping project. Stamped concrete, patio pavers, or natural stone can create a stunning and functional space. Surround the perimeter with lush ornamental grasses, colorful flowers, or low-water natives. Or brighten the space with a few well-p...See full list on bobvila.comFor some home gardeners, a property that’s full of rainbow of blooms is a crowning achievement, but for others, simplicity is perfection. If no-nonsense greenery is your idea of great design, replace the lawn with a low-growing perennial like creeping thymeor wooly thyme. Creeping varieties usually flower heavily with delicate white, purple, or pin...See full list on bobvila.comTo achieve a mix of colors and textures, create a rock garden with stones and flowers. Choose native flowers for the easiest care. The rugged simplicity of the rocks will contrast nicely with the vibrant blooms, creating a one-of-a-kind backyard feature. Plus, once the flowers fade off in the winter, you’ll still enjoy the visual interest of the bo...See full list on bobvila.comAug 19, 2025 · With these grass alternatives for yourlawn, you can attract pollinators to your landscape, replace struggling turfgrass in the shade, and water less. · Lawnalternatives like clover, moss, and sedge replace turfgrass with lower-maintenance options. Get ideas with this list of lawnalternatives. View allNov 21, 2025 · Grass lawns can be difficult on the environment. We're sharing several eco-friendly lawnalternatives that require little to no water, weeding, fertilizer, or pesticides. 2 days ago · Choosing the right lawn alternative can transform youryard—discover which mow-free option saves water and still looks lush year-round. · With these grass alternatives for yourlawn, you can attract pollinators to your landscape, replace struggling turfgrass in the shade, and water less. · Lawnalternatives like clover, moss, and sedge replace turfgrass with lower-maintenance options. Get ideas with this list of lawnalternatives. · Grass lawns can be difficult on the environment. We're sharing several eco-friendly lawnalternatives that require little to no water, weeding, fertilizer, or pesticides. 2 days ago · Choosing the right lawn alternative can transform youryard—discover which mow-free option saves water and still looks lush year-round. Benefits to UsingLawnSubstitutes. Using a lawnsubstitute is more environmentally friendly. Lawnsubstitutes typically require less water.A lawnsubstitute may really be the best choice foryouryard. Discover 6 favorite lawnsubstitutes that save water, reduce maintenance, and create beautiful, functional outdoor spaces. 13+ Eco Lawn Alternatives for a Greener Yard in 2025 | Lawn alternatives, Naturalistic garden, Sustainable landscaping. Засухоустойчивые Растения.LawnSubstitutesforYourYard. 100. 9 Lawn Replacement Ideas. Concrete can be used to create a space to hang out around a fireplace too, essentially adding another living space to your property. Drought-resistant Ground Coverings. This is a practical way to get rid of natural grass using natural lawnsubstitutes in youryard. More ideas for lawnsubstitutes are sowing wildflower seeds, small growing shrubs, ground cover roses, clover, xeriscape plants, pea gravel, heavily chipped mulch, landscape pavers, and artificial grass (don't laugh, it is used quite often). Visit Lawn Free Yard Plants for more ideas on... Faux grass Synthetic grass is increasingly being used as a lawnsubstitute. The rap against synthetic grass is that it heats up in the summer, so you cannot play tag on it in bare feet on the Fourth of July. NEW: 6 lawn-free garden landscape designs for hot dry climates. Smart Replacements forYourLawn. If you have finally decided that the big, green sponge in front of your home, also known as your lawn, has to go, we applaud you.Now for some positive choices for lawnsubstitutes. Resources for Lawns & LawnSubstitutes. Portland Nursery carries a variety of high quality seed mixes blended for Pacific Northwest conditions. Using Lemon Thyme as a LawnSubstitute. If you are looking for an aromatic, carefree alternative to high maintenance lawns, lemon thyme is an excellent option. When it comes to choosing the right ground cover foryouryard, certain plants work better than others due to their growing habits and behaviors. When debating whether the Autumn Fire cotoneaster is right foryouryard, consider that it is drought, deer, and rabbit-resistant. UseLawnSubstitutes. Groundcovers like creeping thyme, clover, or mondo grass can take the place of traditional turf. They stay green with less water, require little mowing, and often resist pests better than regular grass. By reducing your lawn area, you’ll spend less time on repetitive... STEPABLES can help! Our little creepers are perfect for replacing your water thirsty lawn. We also have plenty of short, tight to the ground creeping perennials that will spread and bloom and create lush carpets of color in youryard. Urbaki Gardening. Hacks and Tips. Amazing Pet-Friendly No-Mow LawnSubstitute.Easy to plant and care for. If you’re ready for a lush, pet-friendly, no-mow lawn that can withstand extreme temperatures, Ruschia lineolata 'Nana' might be the perfect solution foryouryard! One of the most appealing no-mow substitutes is the clover lawn. Clover, particularly white clover, is prized for its ability to fix nitrogen from the air, which enriches the soil naturally, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers.
