If you’re tired of killing your grass with mowers and chemicals, then you might be wondering what other options are out there. While a conventional backyard often means a big expanse of green grass, there are plenty of alternatives that can be just as beautiful while being easier on the environment.
Here are ten alternatives to grassy yards:
| Takeaway |
|---|
| There are many alternatives to grass for your backyard |
| Synthetic turf can be a low-maintenance alternative to grass |
| Gravel can create a cost-effective and modern landscape |
| Alternative landscaping can benefit the environment and save resources |
| Consult a professional for advice on the best alternative landscaping for your yard |
Artificial grass
Artificial grass is a great alternative to grass. It’s often used as an eco-friendly way to save water because it doesn’t need regular watering like natural turf does. It can also be used in any climate and yard, regardless of the temperature or precipitation.
In addition, artificial turf requires less maintenance than natural lawns since you can groom it properly without worrying about damaging it.
Adding animals to your backyard can be a fun and exciting project. Our guide on 10 animals that can be raised in the backyard offers tips and advice on different animals that you can raise in your backyard, from chickens and bees to goats and rabbits.
Decking
Decking is a popular alternative to grass. It can be used in place of grass. Decking is made of wood or composite materials and comes in various styles and colors, making it an attractive option for people who want something other than the traditional green lawns found on many homes.
Decking can be installed over concrete or dirt, with or without posts (depending on what you’re using for your deck).
Eco-friendly ground cover
A great alternative to grass is ground covers. These plants can be used in many ways and will require little maintenance. They are also very good for the environment because they don’t need as much water, fertilizer and pesticides as turf grasses do.
Ground covers can be used to create paths or borders around your yard, while allowing you to enjoy being outside without having to mow or water the lawn.
Another option is using ground cover plants in place of grass when landscaping areas such as gardens or flowerbeds where sprinklers are not an option due to lack of space between shrubs or other plants that would need watering too often otherwise (such as roses). At the same time, if you have areas where you want something less formal than lawn but still want some green outdoors without being overwhelmed by weeds year-round then ground cover might offer just what’s needed!
Are you tired of the constant maintenance that comes with having a large grassy yard? Check out our guide on 10 alternatives to grass for large yards to learn about other landscaping ideas that can reduce the amount of time and energy you spend on yard work.
Gastly paving
Gastly paving is a type of interlocking paving stone that can be used as an alternative to grass. They are easy to install and maintain, making them perfect for those who don’t have the time or energy to maintain a regular lawn.
While they’re not suitable for all backyards (particularly with pets or children), ghastly paving stones look good wherever they’re placed and won’t grow mold/weed like real grass does.
You’ll need a concrete base before laying down your ghastly paving stones but that’s it! And because these little guys are made from natural materials, you won’t have to worry about harmful chemicals leaching into the soil below either.
Wooden tiles
Wooden tiles are a great alternative to grass, and they are easy to install and maintain. They can be used in areas that are hard to grow grass, such as organic spaces or areas with lots of traffic. Tiles can also be used on sloped areas such as hillsides; it’s much more convenient than trying to lay sod on those slopes!
Wooden tiles come in many different shapes and sizes so you can customize them for your specific needs. They’re a great choice if you want something that looks natural but is easier than real wood or concrete.
You can find wooden tile floors at stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot – just ask an associate for help finding them in your area!
Comparison of Wooden Tile Materials
| Type of Wood | Durability | Maintenance | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teak | High | Low | High |
| Ipe | High | Low | High |
| Cedar | Medium-High | Medium | Medium |
| Pine | Low | High | Low |
| Bamboo | Medium | Low | Medium-High |
Dandelions are a common weed that can invade backyard landscapes, but are they bad for your yard? Our guide on are dandelions bad for yard explains the impact dandelions can have on your lawn and offers advice on how to remove them if necessary.
Pebble Garden
Pebble gardens are a great alternative to grass, especially if you’re looking for a low-maintenance yard that can take on some of the weight of your outdoor space. A pebble garden is easy to maintain and versatile: you can use it as an accent in just about any part of your yard, or even make it the main feature!
Colorful stones make for a beautiful sight year-round, and they add even more interest when planted with flowers or small shrubs.
Raised garden beds
Raised garden beds are another great alternative to grass. They’re a good solution for small spaces, like patios and balconies. And they can be made from a variety of materials wood, stone or concrete so you can choose what works best with your space and taste.
Raised gardens are also portable which means they can be moved around as needed depending on where you want them in your yard!
Backyard chickens are becoming increasingly popular for a variety of reasons, including their positive impact on the environment. Learn more about this topic by reading our article on are backyard chickens good for the environment and discover how raising chickens can help improve your local ecosystem.
Wildflower meadows
Wildflower meadows are a great alternative to grass, making them a natural choice for those looking for an attractive and low-maintenance yard. If you’re inspired by the idea of creating a wildflower meadow in your own backyard, here’s what you need to know:
Wildflowers attract bees and other pollinators. Wildflowers are a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape, but their value goes beyond aesthetics they also provide food for pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can help maintain healthy ecosystems.
The abundance of blooms makes it easier than ever to establish this type of yard. It’s not difficult or expensive to create a wildflower meadow; all it needs is some careful planning so that the flowers grow in harmony with each other and disperse throughout your yard rather than clumping together in one area (which can look unappealing).
You’ll also want to ensure that there’s adequate water access throughout the growing season so your plants won’t dry out too quickly if they aren’t getting enough rainwater naturally (this may involve installing sprinklers if necessary).
Outdoor gym
The outdoor gym is a great way to stay fit and healthy while enjoying the outdoors. It can be built in any size or shape, depending on your needs and preferences. The outdoor gym is perfect for training for any sport, whether you’re an athlete or just a recreational player. In addition to its many benefits, it’s also a great place to socialize with friends!
Backyard chicken eggs are a popular alternative to store-bought eggs, but are they really healthier? Our guide on are backyard chicken eggs healthier than store-bought examines the nutritional benefits of backyard chicken eggs and how they compare to eggs from the grocery store.
Permeable pavers
Permeable pavers are your best bet for a low-maintenance, easy-to-install, and durable surface. These pavers are made of recycled rubber that is recycled from tires. The rubber pieces are interlocked together to create the look of natural stone without having to use any cement or glue.
Permeable pavers come in a variety of colors and textures so you can find something that matches your backyard style perfectly.
They can withstand heavy traffic while still being easy on the environment since they don’t require too much water or fertilizer like grass does.
You can also use permeable pavers in many different areas around your yard including driveways, sidewalks, and patios!
Comparison of Wooden Tile Materials
| Type of Wood | Durability | Maintenance | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teak | High | Low | High |
| Ipe | High | Low | High |
| Cedar | Medium-High | Medium | Medium |
| Pine | Low | High | Low |
| Bamboo | Medium | Low | Medium-High |
If you don’t like grass, there are other options for your yard.
If you don’t like grass, there are other options for your yard.
You can choose from a wide range of alternatives to grass. Some will be more expensive but last longer, some won’t require much maintenance, and still, others add value to your home.
You have plenty of time before deciding on what type of alternative you want for your yard since the ground is still frozen in many places around the country and spring isn’t for months yet!
Conclusion
There are many alternatives to grass, from artificial turf to wooden tiles. With so many options available, there’s no reason not to try something new in your backyard.
Further Reading
Here are a few additional resources that you might find helpful in exploring alternative landscaping options for your backyard:
11 Simple Lawn Alternatives to Grass in Your Backyard: This article offers more than 10 simple and creative lawn alternatives that require little maintenance and very few resources.
Alternatives to Laying a Lawn: From meadow gardens to gravel beds and synthetic turf, this article lists different alternatives to grass lawns to help you decide what’s best for your yard.
10 Great Alternatives to Lawn: Discover 10 great alternatives to grass lawns to suit your garden and your lifestyle in this article.
FAQs
What are some alternative to grass for your backyard?
There are many alternatives to grass for your backyard that can create unique and visually interesting landscapes. Some popular options include clover, ground covers, native plants, synthetic turf, and gravel.
Is synthetic turf a good alternative to grass?
Synthetic turf can be a suitable alternative to grass for those who want to eliminate the need for watering, fertilizing, and mowing. It is low-maintenance and can offer an even, green surface all year round. However, it can also be expensive to install and have environmental impacts.
Can gravel be used as an alternative to grass in the backyard?
Gravel can be a cost-effective and low-maintenance alternative to grass in the backyard. It can create a unique and modern landscape while also providing permeability for drainage. However, it is not ideal for areas with high traffic or where children may play.
What are the benefits of using alternative landscaping in the backyard?
Alternative landscaping can benefit the environment by attracting beneficial wildlife, reducing water usage, and decreasing reliance on fertilizers and pesticides. It can also help save time, effort and money by requiring less maintenance than a traditional grass lawn.
How do I decide which alternative landscaping is best for my backyard?
The best alternative landscaping for your backyard will depend on your goals, the size of your yard, your budget, and your personal style. Consider what you want to achieve with your yard and consult with a professional landscaper or gardening expert for advice.
I am Hellen James, a landscape architect. For many years I have written about landscaping for various publications; however, recently decided to focus my writing on personal experience as a profession.
