{"id":108048,"date":"2024-02-05T17:14:09","date_gmt":"2024-02-05T20:14:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/?p=108048"},"modified":"2025-07-31T13:05:15","modified_gmt":"2025-07-31T16:05:15","slug":"eco-friendly-grass-alternatives","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/","title":{"rendered":"12 Eco-Friendly Grass Alternatives"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Reducing, reusing, and recycling are not the only ways to go green. Replacing your turfgrass with an eco-friendly alternative is another way for you to minimize your carbon footprint.<\/p>    <p>From ground covers and native plants to artificial turfgrass and hardscapes, eco-friendly grass alternatives can boost your home\u2019s curb appeal with less effort.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-d4f2b1cc-9a6e-47fd-ba71-eea96acc29e1\" 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\"><\/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:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#0-why-consider-grass-alternatives\" style=\"\">Why Consider Grass Alternatives<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#1-eco-friendly-grass-alternatives-you-can-use\" style=\"\">Eco-Friendly Grass Alternatives You Can Use<\/a><ul><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#2-1-ground-covers\" style=\"\">1. Ground Covers<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#3-2-clover\" style=\"\">2. Clover<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#4-3-native-plants\" style=\"\">3. Native Plants<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#5-4-ornamental-grasses\" style=\"\">4. Ornamental Grasses<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#6-5-wildflower-meadows\" style=\"\">5. Wildflower Meadows<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#7-6-artificial-turf\" style=\"\">6. Artificial Turf<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#8-7-low-mow-and-no-mow-grasses\" style=\"\">7. Low-Mow and No-Mow Grasses<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#9-8-rain-gardens\" style=\"\">8. Rain Gardens<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#10-9-rock-gardens\" style=\"\">9. Rock Gardens<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#11-10-flower-beds\" style=\"\">10. Flower Beds<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#12-11-mulchgravel\" style=\"\">11. Mulch\/Gravel<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#13-12-hardscapes\" style=\"\">12. Hardscapes<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#14-faq-about-eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\" style=\"\">FAQ About Eco-Friendly Grass Alternatives<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"0-why-consider-grass-alternatives\">Why Consider Grass Alternatives<\/h2>    <p>Homeowners have various reasons for choosing lawn alternatives. According to Aaron Steil, consumer horticulture extension specialist at Iowa State University, \u201cSome homeowners are looking to reduce the amount of time, chemicals, and money they spend on their lawns.\u201d<\/p>    <p>He adds that for homeowners with areas in their landscape where grass doesn\u2019t grow well, these alternatives will function better and look more appealing.<\/p>    <p><strong>Eco-friendly landscapes<\/strong>:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>Use less water:<\/strong> Most grass alternatives are drought-tolerant and require less irrigation than turfgrass.<\/li>    <li><strong>Use little to no fertilizers or pesticides:<\/strong> Grass alternatives typically thrive without chemicals, resulting in fewer pollutants entering local waterways and a safer environment for kids and pets.<\/li>    <li><strong>Require little to no mowing:<\/strong> Save your time and effort, as many of the alternatives to grass either grow slowly or stay low to the ground. If you don\u2019t need to mow, you can say goodbye to the noise and emissions from your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-equipment\/gas-vs-electric-lawn-mowers\/\">gas or electric lawn mower<\/a>.<\/li>    <li><strong>Support beneficial insects and wildlife:<\/strong> Native plants, clover, and wildflowers attract pollinators and provide habitat for birds and insects. When you replace your turf with these alternatives, your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/what-is-pollinator-lawn\/\">pollinator lawn<\/a> can help restore biodiversity in your backyard.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p><strong>Note:<\/strong> If you still want to have a traditional lawn or incorporate these alternatives, you can always hire a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/landscaping\">local landscaping expert<\/a> to help you.<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-eco-friendly-grass-alternatives-you-can-use\">Eco-Friendly Grass Alternatives You Can Use<\/h2>    <p>When choosing a lawn replacement, Steil says, \u201cIt depends on the goals of the gardener and how homeowners use their landscape. Each has positives and negatives.\u201d<\/p>    <p>He further explains, \u201cIf supporting local ecosystems is a high priority, native planting would be our choice. If you need a lawn that is short or can tolerate light foot traffic, then certain species of ground cover are going to be the best option.\u201d<\/p>    <p>In each of the alternatives listed below, you\u2019ll find common examples, including their best uses, benefits, and potential drawbacks.<\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-1-ground-covers\">1. Ground Covers<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/IMG_3515-1.jpg\" alt=\"Ground cover in the lawn of a house\" class=\"wp-image-120498\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/IMG_3515-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/IMG_3515-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/IMG_3515-1-656x492.jpg 656w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/IMG_3515-1-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/IMG_3515-1-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/author\/jeff-herman\/\">Jeff Herman<\/a> \/ LawnStarter<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>A beautiful and practical alternative to traditional lawns, ground covers are low-growing plants that form a living carpet. They\u2019re generally low-maintenance, requiring minimal watering and mowing. Most <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/best-drought-tolerant-ground-covers\/\">ground covers are drought-tolerant<\/a>, and some varieties can even handle light foot traffic.<\/p>    <p>In the Midwest, ground covers are one of the best options, according to Steil. \u201cThey provide green plant material and root systems to help hold soil, prevent erosion, and allow for better water infiltration and retention.\u201d<\/p>    <p><strong>Examples:<\/strong> Creeping thyme, moss (for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/how-to-grow-a-moss-lawn\/\">moss lawns<\/a>), and ajuga<\/p>    <p><strong>Best Uses:<\/strong> These no-mow lawn alternatives are ideal for shaded spots, small yards, or for filling gaps between pavers.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Pros of Ground Covers<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Cons of Ground Covers<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Low-maintenance<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Suppresses weeds<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Helps prevent erosion<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Adds aesthetic appeal<\/td><td>\u2717 Not suitable for heavily active areas<br>\u2717 Some ground covers, like Bishop\u2019s weed, spread aggressively<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-2-clover\">2. Clover<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/clover-3519554_1280-1.jpg\" alt=\"white clover in a lawn\" class=\"wp-image-117849\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/clover-3519554_1280-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/clover-3519554_1280-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/clover-3519554_1280-1-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/clover-3519554_1280-1-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/de\/photos\/klee-bl%C3%BChen-wei%C3%9Fklee-gras-sommer-3519554\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>A resilient and self-sustaining plant, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/were-thinking-over-why-we-kill-clover\/\">clover<\/a> creates a soft, green lawn that stays lush through summer heat. Since it can fix <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/different-nitrogen-sources-for-the-lawn\/\">nitrogen<\/a>, clover helps improve soil health and reduces the need for nitrogen fertilizer.<\/p>    <p><strong>Examples:<\/strong> White clover and microclover<\/p>    <p><strong>Best Uses:<\/strong> Clover is great for sunny lawns or mixed with traditional turf.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Pros of Clover<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Cons of Clover<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Stays green even during drought<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Attracts beneficial pollinators<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Aesthetically pleasing<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Low-maintenance<\/td><td>\u2717 Needs reseeding every few years<br>\u2717 Can\u2019t handle heavy foot traffic<br>\u2717 May stain clothes and shoes<br>\u2717 Can attract bees<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-3-native-plants\">3. Native Plants<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/close-up-of-buffalograss-2-1.jpg?wsr\" alt=\"close-up of buffalograss\" class=\"wp-image-95914\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/close-up-of-buffalograss-2-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/close-up-of-buffalograss-2-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/close-up-of-buffalograss-2-1-646x485.jpg 646w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/close-up-of-buffalograss-2-1-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/close-up-of-buffalograss-2-1-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Buffalograss<\/em><br>Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:BuffaloSWGrass.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Luxure<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0\/au\/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 3.0 AU<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>As <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/benefits-native-plants\/\">native plants<\/a> are already adapted to your region\u2019s climate and soil, using them in your landscape can support local ecosystems while reducing maintenance.<\/p>    <p><strong>Examples:<\/strong> Sedges, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/buffalograss\/\">buffalograss<\/a>, and blue grama<\/p>    <p><strong>Best uses:<\/strong> Native plants are a great option if you\u2019re going for naturalistic designs, if you have pollinator gardens, or for areas with minimal intervention.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Pros of Native Plants<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Cons of Native Plants<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Boosts local biodiversity<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Low maintenance once established<\/td><td>\u2717 Availability can vary by region<br>\u2717 Can look less uniform than grass<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-4-ornamental-grasses\">4. Ornamental Grasses<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"688\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Purple-Fountain-Grass.jpeg?wsr\" alt=\"image of Purple Fountain Grass grown by the side of a lawn\" class=\"wp-image-134500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Purple-Fountain-Grass.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Purple-Fountain-Grass-300x258.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Purple-Fountain-Grass-656x564.jpeg 656w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Purple-Fountain-Grass-150x129.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Purple-Fountain-Grass-768x660.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Fountain grass<\/em><br>Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/graminee-pennisetum-setaceum-rubrum\/685817478\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hcast<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>Perfect for design accents and drought-prone landscapes, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/types-ornamental-grass\/\">ornamental grasses<\/a> add texture, height, and movement to your yard.<\/p>    <p><strong>Examples:<\/strong> Popular options include fountain grass, blue fescue, and switchgrass.<\/p>    <p><strong>Best uses:<\/strong> Borders, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/what-is-xeriscaping\/\">xeriscaping<\/a>, or natural-style gardens<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Pros of Ornamental Grasses<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Cons of Ornamental Grasses<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Adds visual interest year-round<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Low-maintenance<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Drought-tolerant<\/td><td>\u2717 Not ideal for walking or play<br>\u2717 Some require seasonal trimming<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-5-wildflower-meadows\">5. Wildflower Meadows<\/h3>    <p>If you have a large, sunny yard, you can try meadowscaping instead of converting it to an eco lawn. A wildflower meadow can help you have a vibrant landscape that supports pollinators.<\/p>    <p><strong>Examples:<\/strong> Black-eyed Susan, yarrow, and little bluestem are perfect for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/a-beginners-guide-to-wildflower-gardens\/\">wildflower gardens<\/a>.<\/p>    <p><strong>Best uses:<\/strong> This eco-friendly lawn replacement works well if you want to achieve a natural look in open spaces.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Pros of Wildflower Meadows<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Cons of Wildflower Meadows<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Supports pollinators and wildlife<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Beautiful and colorful blooms<\/td><td>\u2717 Requires periodic mowing and reseeding<br>\u2717 Can look quite messy in the off-season<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7-6-artificial-turf\">6. Artificial Turf<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/artificial-turf.jpeg?wsr\" alt=\"A beautiful artificial lawn in the front yard with nice flowers and shrubs surrounding it  \" class=\"wp-image-135063\" style=\"object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/artificial-turf.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/artificial-turf-300x225.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/artificial-turf-656x492.jpeg 656w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/artificial-turf-150x113.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/artificial-turf-768x576.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/a-beautiful-artificial-lawn-in-the-front-yard-with-nice-flowers-and-shrubs-surrounding-it\/365705477\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">christopher<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>Ideal for areas with water restrictions or heavy activities, artificial turf can give you the look of grass without the upkeep. With this grass alternative, homeowners living in areas with a dry climate can have a green lawn year-round.<\/p>    <p><strong>Examples:<\/strong> For an eco-friendly option, choose <strong>plant-based artificial grass<\/strong> that\u2019s made from recyclable materials like soybean oil and sugarcane.<\/p>    <p><strong>Best uses:<\/strong> Artificial turf works well for play spaces or pet areas.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Pros of Artificial Turf<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Cons of Artificial Turf<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Consistently green and uniform lawn<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> No need for watering, mowing, and fertilizing<\/td><td>\u2717 Higher overall cost, including installation<br>\u2717 Can overheat when exposed to direct sunlight for a long time<br>\u2717 Still requires some maintenance (like regular cleaning and washing)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8-7-low-mow-and-no-mow-grasses\">7. Low-Mow and No-Mow Grasses<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"552\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Fine-fescue-grass.jpg?wsr\" alt=\"Close up image of fine fescue grass with a hand on it\" class=\"wp-image-86807\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Fine-fescue-grass.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Fine-fescue-grass-300x207.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Fine-fescue-grass-646x446.jpg 646w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Fine-fescue-grass-150x104.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/Fine-fescue-grass-768x530.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Fine fescue<\/em><br>Photo Credit: Aaron Patton \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/turf.purdue.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Purdue&#8217;s Turfgrass Science Program<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>Since they grow slowly, low-mow and no-mow grasses require little to no mowing at all. They provide a natural lawn appearance with far less effort spent on maintenance.<\/p>    <p><strong>Examples:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/fine-fescue\/\">Fine fescue<\/a> and buffalograss<\/p>    <p><strong>Best uses:<\/strong> Low-mow and no-mow grasses are best for open, sunny areas where minimal upkeep is desired.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Pros of Low-Mow and No-Mow Grasses<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Cons of Low-Mow and No-Mow Grasses<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Reduces mowing and watering<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Provides a soft and grassy look<\/td><td>\u2717 Limited tolerance to foot traffic<br>\u2717 May not thrive in all climates, depending on grass type<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p><strong>See Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/no-mow-grass-alternatives\/\">No-Mow Grass Alternatives<\/a><\/p>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9-8-rain-gardens\">8. Rain Gardens<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/rain-garden-1.jpg?wsr\" alt=\"Rain garden harvesting rainwater from roof\" class=\"wp-image-135048\" style=\"object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/rain-garden-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/rain-garden-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/rain-garden-1-656x492.jpg 656w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/rain-garden-1-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/rain-garden-1-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.m.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Parkdale,_Calgary_LID_rain_garden.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Maureen Flynn-Burhoe<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>Beautiful and functional, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/what-is-a-rain-garden\/\">rain gardens<\/a> are landscape features that collect and filter stormwater. They help support native plants while reducing runoff and helping to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/ways-to-get-rid-standing-water\/\">get rid of standing water<\/a>.<\/p>    <p><strong>Examples:<\/strong> Joe Pye weed, swamp milkweed, and sedges are some common choices when <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/how-build-rain-garden\/\">building rain gardens<\/a>.<\/p>    <p><strong>Best uses:<\/strong> Rain gardens are ideal for low-lying areas with poor drainage.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Pros of Rain Gardens<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Cons of Rain Gardens<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Manages stormwater naturally<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Attracts pollinators and wildlife<\/td><td>\u2717 Needs proper soil grading<br>\u2717 Requires seasonal maintenance<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10-9-rock-gardens\">9. Rock Gardens<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"530\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/rock-garden.jpeg?wsr\" alt=\"Rock garden with clusters of yellow ground cover plants and various sizes of decorative stones and pebbles.\" class=\"wp-image-135051\" style=\"object-fit:cover\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/rock-garden.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/rock-garden-300x199.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/rock-garden-656x435.jpeg 656w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/rock-garden-150x99.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/rock-garden-768x509.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/rockery-rock-garden\/305352575\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">yanikap<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>Perfect for dry climates, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/how-to-make-a-rock-garden\/\">rock gardens<\/a> combine drought-tolerant plants with stone features for a low-maintenance design.<\/p>    <p><strong>Examples:<\/strong> Plants like sedum, hens-and-chicks, and other <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/how-to-create-a-succulent-garden\/\">succulents<\/a> work well in rock gardens.<\/p>    <p><strong>Best uses:<\/strong> Rock gardens are ideal for areas where it can be challenging to grow grass, such as on slopes.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Pros of Rock Gardens<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Cons of Rock Gardens<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Very low water requirements<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Adds structure and year-round interest<\/td><td>\u2717 Labor-intensive to install<br>\u2717 Limited usable space<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11-10-flower-beds\">10. Flower Beds<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/flower-bed-1.jpeg?wsr\" alt=\"Colorful flowers in the garden. Cropped photo. Summer landscape. Pink, yellow, and white flowers and green grass.\" class=\"wp-image-135052\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/flower-bed-1.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/flower-bed-1-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/flower-bed-1-656x437.jpeg 656w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/flower-bed-1-150x100.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/flower-bed-1-768x512.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/colorful-flowers-in-the-garden-cropped-photo-summer-landscape-pink-yellow-white-flowers-and-green-grass\/410996110\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Vadim<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock Free \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/license-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>Flower beds can transform your yard into fragrant, colorful eye candy. With endless design possibilities, you can use flower beds as vibrant focal points in your landscape. But don\u2019t forget to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/how-to-prevent-weeds-in-flower-beds\/\">prevent weeds in your flower beds<\/a> so you won\u2019t have to worry about weeding regularly.<\/p>    <p><strong>Examples:<\/strong> A bed filled with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/flowering-perennials-for-your-gardens\/\">flowering perennials<\/a>, annuals, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/flowering-shrubs-add-color\/\">flowering shrubs<\/a><\/p>    <p><strong>Best uses:<\/strong> Ideal for front yards, borders, or for creating accents<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Pros of Flower Beds<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Cons of Flower Beds<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Visually striking and customizable<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Supports pollinators and other <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/beneficial-insects-lawn-garden\/\">beneficial insects<\/a><\/td><td>\u2717 Requires regular care and weeding<br>\u2717 Not functional for play or walking<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p><strong>See Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-flower-beds\/\">How to Get Rid of Weeds in Flower Beds<\/a><\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td>If you need to get rid of weeds in your <em>existing<\/em> flower beds, you can hire a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/lawn-care\">LawnStarter lawn care pro<\/a> for help. Our customers spend around <strong>$96 for flower bed weeding<\/strong> and give our pros an <strong>average rating of 4.5<\/strong>.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"12-11-mulchgravel\">11. Mulch\/Gravel<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Gravel-mulch.jpg\" alt=\"Inorganic gravel mulch around plants and trees\" class=\"wp-image-115720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Gravel-mulch.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Gravel-mulch-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Gravel-mulch-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Gravel-mulch-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/landscaping-of-a-backyard-garden-with-ornamental-growth-cypress-bushes-by-yellow-and-red-stone-mulch-way-on-a-day-summer-park-details-nobody\/369794747\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u0410\u043b\u0435\u043a\u0441\u0430\u043d\u0434\u0440 \u0411\u0435\u0441\u043f\u0430\u043b\u044b\u0439<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock Free \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/license-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>Using <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/what-is-mulch\/\">mulch<\/a>, such as gravel and river rocks, can give your yard a clean, minimalistic look while helping suppress weeds and reduce watering needs.<\/p>    <p><strong>Examples:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/how-to-landscape-with-pea-gravel\/\">Pea gravel<\/a> and bark mulch<\/p>    <p><strong>Best uses:<\/strong> Depending on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/types-of-mulch\/\">type of mulch<\/a>, it can be placed around trees, in xeriscapes, or along pathways.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Pros of Mulch\/Gravel<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Cons of Mulch\/Gravel<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Conserves soil moisture<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Virtually maintenance-free<\/td><td>\u2717 Can shift or get washed away if installed without <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/garden-edging-ideas-tips\/\">garden edging<\/a><br>\u2717 Can create a moist environment that attracts pests and diseases to nearby plants<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td>Hire a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/landscaping\">LawnStarter landscaping pro<\/a> for help in mulching your yard. Our customers spend around <strong>$286 for mulching services<\/strong> and give our pros an <strong>average rating of 4.7<\/strong>.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"13-12-hardscapes\">12. Hardscapes<\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_4152119958_03704f5b6b_c.jpg\" alt=\"Pea gravel placed between flat walking stones\" class=\"wp-image-35145\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_4152119958_03704f5b6b_c.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_4152119958_03704f5b6b_c-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_4152119958_03704f5b6b_c-646x485.jpg 646w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_4152119958_03704f5b6b_c-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_4152119958_03704f5b6b_c-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/youngandwithit\/4152119958\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">reader of the pack<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nd\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-ND 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p>Hardscaping incorporates stones, wood, or concrete elements to create grass-free yet functional outdoor areas.<\/p>    <p><strong>Examples:<\/strong> Decks, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/landscaping-with-flagstone\/\">flagstone<\/a>, stepping stones, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/how-to-landscape-with-pavers\/\">pavers<\/a><\/p>    <p><strong>Best uses:<\/strong> Hardscapes are perfect for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/small-patio-ideas\/\">patios<\/a>, paths, and entertainment zones. They\u2019re also great for reducing lawn size while increasing usability.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Pros of Hardscapes<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Cons of Hardscapes<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Durable and easy to maintain<br><strong>\u2713<\/strong> Adds value and function to your yard<\/td><td>\u2717 Can be quite expensive to install<br>\u2717 Doesn\u2019t support local wildlife or improve soil<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p><strong>See Related:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/landscaping\/lawn-landscape-projects-increase-home-value\/\">Lawn and Landscape Items with the Greatest ROI<\/a><\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"14-faq-about-eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\">FAQ About Eco-Friendly Grass Alternatives<\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1749391500310\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the Best Grass to Plant if you Live in an Area with Drought?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Your best option would be <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/best-drought-tolerant-grasses\/\">drought-tolerant grasses<\/a> like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/bermudagrass-guide\/\">Bermudagrass<\/a> and fine fescue.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1749391506348\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the Best Dog-Friendly Alternative to Grass?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Due to its durability, artificial turf is a popular choice for pet owners. It\u2019s also easy to clean and can withstand heavy use, including digging and running. Dog-friendly ground covers like miniature stonecrop and silver carpet can also take light to moderate paw traffic.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1749391511111\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the Best Options to Replace Grass if You\u2019re on a Budget?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Clover and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/native-grasses-are-they-right-for-your-lawn\/\">native grasses<\/a> are cost-effective options, requiring less water, fertilizer, and mowing. This makes them affordable both in the short and long term.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1749391519610\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What are the Best Grass Alternatives for High-Traffic Areas?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Artificial turf and hardscapes like pavers or stepping stones are the best options for high-traffic areas, offering superior durability with little upkeep.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"15-choose-the-greener-grass\">Choose the Greener Grass<\/h2>    <p>Juggling daily life activities and growing concerns about the environment may prompt homeowners to replace their lawns with a \u201cgreener\u201d option. With these eco-friendly grass alternatives, you can have an eye-catching yet environmentally friendly lawn. If you need help choosing the best lawn alternative for your home, consult a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/landscaping\">local landscaping pro<\/a> today.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle wp-block-ub-content-toggle-block\" id=\"ub-content-toggle-block-c70fbc5a-56c4-45bf-aca1-35d098975f5d\" data-mobilecollapse=\"false\" data-desktopcollapse=\"true\" data-preventcollapse=\"false\" data-showonlyone=\"true\"> <div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion\" style=\"border-color: #f1f1f1; \" id=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-block-\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-title-wrap\" style=\"background-color: #f1f1f1;\" aria-controls=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-0-c70fbc5a-56c4-45bf-aca1-35d098975f5d\" tabindex=\"0\"> \t\t\t<p class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-title ub-content-toggle-title-c70fbc5a-56c4-45bf-aca1-35d098975f5d\" style=\"color: #000000; \"><strong>Sources:<\/strong><\/p> \t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-toggle-wrap right\" style=\"color: #000000;\"><span class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-state-indicator wp-block-ub-chevron-down\"><\/span><\/div> \t\t<\/div> \t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-content-wrap ub-hide\" id=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-0-c70fbc5a-56c4-45bf-aca1-35d098975f5d\">  <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.extension.iastate.edu\/staff\/ajsteil\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Aaron Steil<\/a>, consumer horticulture extension specialist at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Personal interview.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/hort.extension.wisc.edu\/articles\/alternatives-to-lawn-groundcovers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Alternatives to Lawn: Groundcovers<\/a>.\u201d By Vijai Pandian, horticulture extension educator, and Lisa Johnson, senior horticulture educator. University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/planttalk.colostate.edu\/topics\/design\/1115-designing-rock-garden\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Designing a Rock Garden<\/a>.\u201d Colorado State University Extension.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/extension.psu.edu\/lawn-alternatives\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lawn Alternatives<\/a>.\u201d By Maureen Karl, master gardener. Pennsylvania State University Extension.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.canr.msu.edu\/resources\/smart_lawns_for_pollinators\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Smart Gardening: Smart Lawn Alternatives to Protect Pollinators<\/a>.\u201d By Rebecca Krans, consumer horticulture educator. Michigan State University Extension.<\/li> <\/ul>  <\/div> \t\t<\/div> <\/div>   <p>Main Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/meadow-full-of-clover-flowers\/167649393\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GCapture<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Besides supporting beneficial insects and wildlife, eco-friendly grass alternatives like ground covers, native plants, ornamental grasses, and wildflower meadows can also reduce your mowing, watering, and fertilizer needs. We\u2019ll discuss these and other grass alternatives for an eco-friendly landscape.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":131,"featured_media":135055,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[28],"tags":[9],"class_list":["post-108048","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-lawn-care-2","tag-lawn-care"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/clover-lawn.jpeg?wsr","author_info":{"display_name":"Melanie Joseph","author_link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/author\/melanie-josephlawnstarter-com\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>12 Eco-Friendly Grass Alternatives<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"12 Eco-Friendly Grass Alternatives\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Besides supporting beneficial insects and wildlife, eco-friendly grass alternatives like ground covers, native plants, ornamental grasses, and wildflower meadows can also reduce your mowing, watering, and fertilizer needs. 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She\u2019s passionate about sharing practical tips to help homeowners cultivate healthier, greener yards \u2014 one blade of grass at a time.","url":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/author\/melanie-josephlawnstarter-com\/"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#faq-question-1749391500310","position":1,"url":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#faq-question-1749391500310","name":"What is the Best Grass to Plant if you Live in an Area with Drought?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Your best option would be <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/best-drought-tolerant-grasses\/\">drought-tolerant grasses<\/a> like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/bermudagrass-guide\/\">Bermudagrass<\/a> and fine fescue.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#faq-question-1749391506348","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#faq-question-1749391506348","name":"What is the Best Dog-Friendly Alternative to Grass?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Due to its durability, artificial turf is a popular choice for pet owners. 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This makes them affordable both in the short and long term.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#faq-question-1749391519610","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/eco-friendly-grass-alternatives\/#faq-question-1749391519610","name":"What are the Best Grass Alternatives for High-Traffic Areas?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Artificial turf and hardscapes like pavers or stepping stones are the best options for high-traffic areas, offering superior durability with little upkeep.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/108048","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/131"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=108048"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/108048\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/135055"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=108048"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=108048"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=108048"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}