- 1. Choose the Right Native, Drought-Tolerant Plants and Succulents<\/a><\/li>
- 2. Plant Perennials<\/a><\/li>
- 3. Choose Lawn Alternatives<\/a><\/li>
- 4. Use Mulch<\/a><\/li>
- 5. Select the Right Trees and Shrubs<\/a><\/li>
- 6. Install Hardscaping Features<\/a><\/li>
- 7. Add Water Features<\/a><\/li>
- 8. Switch to Xeriscaping<\/a><\/li>
- 9. Container Gardening<\/a><\/li>
- 10. Install Efficient Irrigation Systems<\/a><\/li>
- 11. Add Automatic Landscape Lighting<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>
What makes a landscape truly low-maintenance?<\/em><\/p>
A landscape is truly low-maintenance when it\u2019s both beautiful and easy to care for with minimal effort \u2014 not no effort. <\/p>
\u201cLow maintenance doesn\u2019t mean no maintenance, and that is typically the misconception. Low maintenance, in our opinion, relates to slower-growing plants, pruning once a season, etc.,\u201d says Andy Sykes, president of Garrett Churchill, a landscaping company in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania.<\/p>
\u201cPlants need to be cared for,\u201d Sykes adds \u2014 \u201cdeadheaded, pruned, beds weeded, etc. The key is minimizing the amount of work, not pretending it doesn\u2019t exist.\u201d<\/p>
This is the heart of low-maintenance landscaping: setting up your yard in a way that reduces ongoing tasks, but still respects the fact that living landscapes need care. Think of it as designing a system that works with<\/em> nature, not against it.<\/p>
Here are the top 11 ways to reduce the landscaping workload around your home:<\/p>
1. Choose the Right Native, Drought-Tolerant Plants and Succulents<\/h2>
A low-maintenance yard starts with the right plants in the right spots. Native plants, drought-tolerant trees<\/a> and shrubs, and succulents thrive when matched to their ideal soil, sunlight, and water. The result: stronger growth, fewer pest problems, and far less upkeep.<\/p>
- Native plants<\/strong> are already adapted to your region\u2019s climate. They don\u2019t need pesticides (which means they’re eco-friendly), and they\u2019re easy on your wallet.
<\/li>- Drought-tolerant plants<\/strong> save you time and water once they\u2019re established. They\u2019ll keep looking good even if you forget to drag out the hose now and then.
<\/li>- Succulents<\/strong> (like hens-and-chicks, agave, or echeveria) are the ultimate low-maintenance choice. Their water-storing leaves, variety of shapes and colors, and tolerance for dry conditions make them perfect for rock gardens, succulent gardens<\/a>, containers, or borders.<\/li> <\/ul>
Best Plants for Full Sun<\/h3>
![\"Yellow](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/black-eyed-susan-1.jpeg\")
Black-eyed Susan. Photo Credit: AngieC<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> Sunny spots in the yard can be tricky \u2014 too much heat and light will wear some plants out. These are a few of my go-to favorites that love the sun and give back with bold color, toughness, and almost no fuss:<\/p>
- Black-eyed Susans:<\/strong> Bright, hardy perennials that attract pollinators<\/li>
- Shrub roses:<\/strong> Thriving in full sun, shrub roses come in a variety of colors and produce generous blooms with minimal care.<\/li>
- Lavender:<\/strong> Fragrant, drought-tolerant, and a natural mosquito repellent<\/li>
- Blue mist spirea:<\/strong> Produces clouds of soft blue flowers late in the season, all while staying drought-tolerant<\/li> <\/ul>
My Experience:<\/strong> I\u2019ve created designs using these four sun-loving beauties together in garden beds, and I love how stunning they look when planted \u2014 they just seem to come alive.<\/p>
Best Plants for Shade\/Filtered Shade<\/h3>
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Northern-Maidenhair-Fern.jpg?wsr\")
Northern Maidenhair Fern. Photo Credit: Schnobby<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ CC BY-SA 3.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> Shady areas often get overlooked, but they can become some of the lushest, most inviting parts of a low-maintenance shade landscape<\/a>. These plants thrive in low light and require little care:<\/p>
- Hostas:<\/strong> Nearly indestructible with lush foliage<\/li>
- Ferns:<\/strong> Low-water needs and perfect for shaded beds<\/li>
- Astilbe:<\/strong> Feathery plumes that add color and texture<\/li>
- Oakleaf hydrangeas:<\/strong> Cone-shaped white flowers that shine in part to full shade<\/li> <\/ul>
Design Tip:<\/strong> In shady areas, I love using variegated hostas (with white or yellow edges). They really pop with contrast. Plant oakleaf hydrangeas just behind them for a layered, textured look. Just a heads-up: Deer adore hostas, but they usually leave oakleaf hydrangeas alone.<\/p>
Best Plants for Drought<\/h3>
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Russian_sage_by_RO_II.jpg?wsr\")
Russian sage. Photo Credit: <\/a>Rationalobserver<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> Dry spots don\u2019t have to be barren. Drought-tolerant landscaping<\/a> uses tough, water-wise plants that thrive with little supplemental watering once established. Some of my favorites are:<\/p>
- Russian sage:<\/strong> Silver foliage and purple blooms that shrug off dry spells<\/li>
- Yucca:<\/strong> Striking architectural leaves with low water needs<\/li>
- Ornamental native grasses<\/a>: Airy, textural, and naturally drought-tolerant<\/li> <\/ul>
My Experience:<\/strong> I\u2019ve used Russian sage extensively in landscape designs for homeowners. They fall in love with this tall, light purple-blue perennial, which is drought-tolerant and pairs beautifully with pink shrub roses and ornamental grasses.<\/p>
2. Plant Perennials<\/h2>
![\"yellow](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/06\/Lanceleaf-Coreopsis.jpg?wsr\")
Lanceleaf Coreopsis. Photo Credit: Cette photo a \u00e9t\u00e9 prise par Andr\u00e9 ALLIOT.<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ CC0 1.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> Perennials return year after year, unlike annuals that need replanting each season. Here are some of my go-to low-maintenance perennial plants for texture, color, and fragrance: <\/p>
- Coreopsis:<\/strong> Daisy-like flowers that bloom all summer<\/li>
- Coral bells:<\/strong> Stunning foliage in shades from lime green to burgundy<\/li>
- Salvia:<\/strong> Spikes of purple or blue flowers that attract pollinators<\/a><\/li>
- Catmint:<\/strong> Aromatic and long-blooming, this drought-tolerant perennial<\/a> is practically carefree<\/li>
- Hellebores:<\/strong> Lenten roses bring winter gardens to life with evergreen foliage and early blooms in shades of pink, white, and burgundy.<\/li> <\/ul>
3. Choose Lawn Alternatives<\/h2>
Lawns are often the most high-maintenance part of a yard, with mowing, watering, fertilizing, and weed control as constant chores. Sykes says, \u201cConsider drought-tolerant ground covers<\/a>, sedges, and no-mow fescue\u201d instead if you\u2019re searching for grass alternatives.<\/p>
Groundcovers<\/h3>
![\"Ground](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/IMG_3515-1.jpg?wsr\")
Ground cover. Photo Credit: Jeff Herman \/ LawnStarter<\/figcaption><\/figure> Groundcovers are low-growing plants that spread to fill bare spots, suppress weeds, and thrive where other plants struggle. These shade-friendly groundcovers<\/a> are also perennials and easy to maintain, making them ideal for low-maintenance landscaping.<\/p>
\u201cDepending on the site and cultural conditions, pachysandra is a great ground cover, but it does not like sun. Other shade-loving perennials that act as a ground cover include tiarellas, sedges, ferns, and hostas; for sunny spots, consider ajuga and liriope.\u201d<\/p>
Thinking of ivy? Think again: \u201cWe are not big fans of ivy since it can be invasive, climbing trees and structures, and requiring constant maintenance,\u201d Sykes says.<\/p>
Note:<\/strong> Wildlife is another consideration \u2014 deer can be tricky, and their tastes vary. Here in Pennsylvania, we have to choose deer-resistant plants and trees<\/a>. Typically, they ignore pachysandra and vinca, but I\u2019ve seen them nibble on liriope, leaving half-chewed stalks behind.<\/p>
Sedges<\/h3>
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/01\/Sedge.jpeg\")
Sedge. Photo Credit: Michael<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> These shade-loving perennials thrive in woodland areas, and need very little care once established. In Pennsylvania, our native sedges include Pennsylvania sedge, woodland sedge, Appalachian sedge, and rosy sedge.<\/p>
No Mow Fescue<\/h3>
In order to create a low-maintenance lawn, consider using a no-mow grass alternative<\/a> called no-mow fescue. This slow-growing grass blend forms soft clumps that require mowing only once or twice a year. It\u2019s drought-tolerant, weed-resistant, and eco-friendly.<\/p>
Clover\/Microclover<\/h3>
Clover, and its smaller cousin, microclover, used to be written off as weeds, but that\u2019s changing. More homeowners are discovering how clover lawns<\/a> stay greener than regular grass, enrich the soil with nitrogen, attract pollinators, and mix right in with turf to create a thick, easy lawn that doesn\u2019t need as much fuss.<\/p>
Wildflowers<\/h3>
Wildflowers are native plants that grow with minimal care, attracting pollinators while needing little watering or mowing. A wildflower garden<\/a> adds bursts of seasonal color while reducing mowing and watering. In Pennsylvania, natives such as goldenrod and wild blue indigo thrive with little effort.<\/p>
Ornamental Grasses<\/h3>
Ornamental grasses are easy-care plants valued for their minimal upkeep. Drought-tolerant and pest- and disease-resistant, they provide year-round texture, color, and movement, making them a practical and attractive choice for low-maintenance gardens and landscapes.<\/p>
I\u2019ve used a wide range of ornamental grasses<\/a> in landscape designs, from compact blue fescue to sweeping fountain and maiden grasses, as well as bold, striped zebra grass.<\/p>
Artificial Turf<\/h3>
Love it or hate it, artificial turf offers a low-maintenance lawn alternative \u2014 though it\u2019s not entirely maintenance-free. It eliminates the need for mowing and watering but does require occasional cleaning and hosing down.<\/p>
My Experience:<\/strong> Always hose down artificial turf before guests arrive. My friend didn\u2019t, and when we knelt for a photo, I landed in a puddle of dog pee \u2014 soaked pants and smelling like urine for the rest of the night. Quite an unforgettable party memory!<\/p>
4. Use Mulch<\/h2>
![\"Gardener](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/mulching-1.jpg\")
Organic wood chip mulch. Photo Credit: ronstik<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> Using organic mulch<\/a> is a simple way to reduce the maintenance workload in your landscaping beds. Organic mulch nourishes the soil, suppresses weeds, retains soil moisture, and reduces watering requirements.<\/p>
See Related:<\/strong> <\/p>
- Mulch Calculator: How Much Mulch Do You Need?<\/a><\/li>
- How to Mulch Your Yard: A Step-by-Step Guide<\/a><\/li>
- Types of Mulch for Your Landscape<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>
5. Select the Right Trees and Shrubs<\/h2>
Fewer, well-chosen trees and shrubs can reduce pruning and create a more manageable yard. Consider:<\/p>
- Deciduous trees:<\/strong> Upright hornbeam \u2018Fastigiata\u2019, serviceberry, or red maple \u2018Columnare\u2019.<\/li>
- Shrubs:<\/strong> Compact inkberry holly, dwarf fothergilla, or ninebark (a drought-tolerant shrub<\/a>).
Evergreens:<\/strong> \u2018Emerald Green\u2019 arborvitae, juniper \u2018Skyrocket\u2019, or eastern white pine \u2018Columnaris\u2019. <\/li> <\/ul>Note:<\/strong> Deer adore \u2018Emerald Green\u2019 arborvitae, leaving them looking like popsicle sticks after browsing. For a deer-resistant option, consider the \u2018Green Giant\u2019 arborvitae.<\/p>
6. Install Hardscaping Features<\/h2>
![\"external](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/patio.jpeg?wsr\")
Patio. Photo Credit: Ozgur Coskun<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> Patios, garden retaining walls, and cozy sitting areas bring both style and structure to your yard. These low-maintenance features create defined spaces, control erosion, and serve as lasting focal points \u2014 effortlessly adding charm and functionality to your outdoor space.<\/p>
Gravel Paths <\/h3>
Gravel paths, like red tipple or pea gravel, guide visitors, adding texture and color. Edged for neatness, they connect areas naturally with low upkeep.<\/p>
Rock Gardens<\/h3>
![\"Rock](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/rock-garden.jpeg?wsr\")
Rock garden. Photo Credit: yanikap<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> A rock garden isn\u2019t just pretty \u2014 it\u2019s practical too. It helps control erosion, stabilize slopes, and reduce watering, all while keeping weeds in check. Adding ornamental grasses, low-growing evergreens, and other hardy plants brings texture and color, making rock gardens a smart, low-maintenance choice for any yard.<\/p>
Patios<\/h3>
Patios extend living space for dining, entertaining, or relaxing. Durable materials like pavers, flagstone, or concrete create beautiful, functional, low-maintenance focal points.<\/p>
7. Add Water Features<\/h2>
Low-maintenance water features can add beauty and tranquility without demanding constant upkeep. Small fountains, container ponds, or goldfish basins add sound and life to a garden. <\/p>
Interesting Fact:<\/strong> Goldfish even control mosquito larvae naturally.<\/p>
8. Switch to Xeriscaping<\/h2>
![\"Xeriscaped](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/xeriscaping-1-1.jpg?wsr\")
Xeriscaped front yard. Photo Credit: Pexels<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> Xeriscaping relies on native and drought-tolerant plants set with gravel or stone accents, but these water-wise landscapes still require some TLC in their first season.<\/p>
Sykes cautions, \u201cI understand the concept of xeriscaping, but I feel there is a misconception regarding it. We tell our clients that there is an establishment period for all plants of around 1 growing season. Low-water-use plants need that same establishment period. They may require less water, but that doesn\u2019t mean no water.\u201d<\/p>
See Related:<\/strong> What is Xeriscaping?<\/a><\/p>
9. Container Gardening<\/h2>
![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/Container-Garden-1.jpg?wsr\")
Container garden. Photo Credit: Akos Kokai <\/a>\/ Wikimedia Commons \/ CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure> The beauty of container gardening is flexibility. The containers can be moved indoors, and plants can be swapped out for seasonal enjoyment. Smaller spaces and patio areas benefit from this space-saving method by adding herbs, succulents, vegetables, and flowering annuals that thrive with minimal effort. <\/p>
10. Install Efficient Irrigation Systems<\/h2>
Smart irrigation \u2014 sprinkler systems with automatic controllers or drip irrigation \u2014 is key to low-maintenance landscaping. These systems deliver the right amount of water to each zone \u2014 turf, shrubs, perennials, and annuals \u2014 saving time, conserving water, and reducing waste.<\/p>
See Related:<\/strong> Types of Sprinklers for Your Lawn and Garden<\/a><\/p>
Smart Controllers<\/h3>
Smart controllers automatically adjust based on weather, soil moisture, and plant needs, ensuring turf, shrubs, perennials, and annuals in each zone receive optimal hydration, saving time, water, and effort.<\/p>
Drip Irrigation<\/h3>
![\"Close](\"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/drip-irrigation.jpg?wsr\")
Drip Irrigation. Photo Credit: NOWRA photography<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure> This irrigation system is simple, using a hose with holes that lies on the ground between your plants. Drip irrigation<\/a> delivers water directly to plant roots, reduces evaporation and runoff, and promotes deep root growth in perennials, annuals, and groundcovers.<\/p>
11. Add Automatic Landscape Lighting<\/h2>
Add a magical nighttime glow while highlighting pathways, trees, and garden features with automatic landscape lighting. Automatic controls such as timers, motion sensors, and smart controllers make operation effortless, while spotlights and hardscape lighting create ambiance.<\/p>
Additionally, solar-powered lights are easy to install, require minimal wiring, and charge during the day to turn on automatically at night to save you money on electricity.<\/p>
Minimal Effort Meets Beautiful When You Hire a Pro<\/h2>
I\u2019ve enjoyed creating low-maintenance yards that reduce homeowners\u2019 work. With minimal effort, combining the right elements, and placing each plant in the perfect spot, it\u2019s pure joy to watch a landscape thrive.<\/p>
If you\u2019d like to explore the world of low-maintenance landscaping, a local LawnStarter landscaping expert<\/a> can bring your vision to life. They\u2019ll handle the grunt work so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the view.<\/p>
\t\t\t\t\t\tSources:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p> \t\t\t
<\/span><\/div> \t\t<\/div> \t\t\t- Andy Sykes, president of Garrett Churchill<\/a>, a landscaping company in Willow Grove, PA. Personal interview.<\/li>
- \u201cGrasses vs. Sedges<\/a>.\u201d By Elaine Mills, Extension master gardener. MGNV.<\/li>
- \u201cThe Effect of Fine Fescue Species and Seeding Rate in No-Mow Areas<\/a>.\u201d By Andrew Hollman, Eric Watkins, and Garett Heineck. University of Minnesota Department of Horticultural Science.<\/li>
- \u201cLawns and Microclover<\/a>.\u201d By Christa Carignan, Maryland certified professional horticulturist and coordinator, <\/em>University of Maryland Extension Home & Garden Information Center. UMD Extension.<\/li>
- \u201cLow Maintenance Does Not Mean Maintenance-Free (Artificial Grass)<\/a>.\u201d By Rob Robichaud, sustainable landscape management expert. Verde Valley Turf.<\/li> <\/ul> <\/div> \t\t<\/div> <\/div>
Main Image: Zen garden with large vertical rocks. Image Credit: Hiro2006<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ CC BY-SA 3.0<\/a><\/p>
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MGNV.<\/li>
- Shrubs:<\/strong> Compact inkberry holly, dwarf fothergilla, or ninebark (a drought-tolerant shrub<\/a>).
- How to Mulch Your Yard: A Step-by-Step Guide<\/a><\/li>
- Coral bells:<\/strong> Stunning foliage in shades from lime green to burgundy<\/li>
- Yucca:<\/strong> Striking architectural leaves with low water needs<\/li>
- Ferns:<\/strong> Low-water needs and perfect for shaded beds<\/li>
- Shrub roses:<\/strong> Thriving in full sun, shrub roses come in a variety of colors and produce generous blooms with minimal care.<\/li>
- Drought-tolerant plants<\/strong> save you time and water once they\u2019re established. They\u2019ll keep looking good even if you forget to drag out the hose now and then.
- 2. Plant Perennials<\/a><\/li>