Grass lawns require a lot of time, money and effort to maintain. Many homeowners are now looking for cheaper and lower maintenance alternatives to replace their grass lawns. There are several options available that can save homeowners money while still providing an attractive landscape.
Why Replace Grass?
There are many reasons why homeowners may want to replace their grass lawns:
- Grass requires frequent mowing, watering, fertilizing and weed control to stay green and lush. This can be time consuming, expensive and not environmentally friendly.
- Grass lawns use a lot of water. Up to 70% of residential water use goes towards watering lawns in the summer.
- Many types of grass go dormant and turn brown during hot, dry periods without ample irrigation.
- Grass is prone to diseases, insects and other pests that require treatment with pesticides and herbicides.
- Some homeowners simply don’t want to spend their time mowing and maintaining a lawn.
- Grass pollen can cause allergy symptoms for some people.
Replacing grass with a low maintenance alternative can save homeowners time and money while conserving water and reducing chemical use.
Cheapest Grass Alternatives
Some of the most budget-friendly options to replace grass lawns include:
Clover
Clover costs little to establish and maintains itself once planted. It stays green with very little watering and no fertilizer required. Clover flowers also attract pollinators. There are several types of clover suitable for lawns:
- White clover – Low growing, spreads to form thick turf.
- Micro clover – Very tiny leaves, stays under 3 inches tall.
- Wildflower clover mix – Features beautiful flowers.
The seed is inexpensive, between $2-8 per pound. Clover can be overseeded into existing grass or seeded on bare soil. It does best in full sun and requires occasional mowing.
Groundcovers
Groundcovers are low growing plants that spread to form a dense cover over the soil like a carpet. Popular groundcovers include:
- Creeping sedum – Succulent with colorful foliage, needs very little watering once established.
- Creeping thyme – Fragrant foliage and flowers, thrives in sunny locations.
- Ajuga – Known as bugleweed, blue foliage, some varieties have pretty flowers.
- Dichondra – Soft, kidney-shaped leaves, turns silvery green in cold weather.
These plants cost between $10-20 for a flat which covers about 10 square feet. They spread over time to provide a lush carpet.
Native Grasses
Native grasses are naturally adapted to the climate and require very little care. Examples include:
- Buffalo grass – Warm season grass with blue-gray color, needs very little mowing or water.
- Prairie dropseed – Fine-textured grass with foliage that sways in the breeze.
- Tufted fescue – Bunch grass with soft green color.
Native grass seed mixes typically cost $30-60 per pound. Some mowing is needed 1-2 times per month in peak growing season.
Artificial Turf
Artificial turf provides the look of a grass lawn without any maintenance. Basic artificial turf costs around $2-3 per square foot installed. Higher end options with thicker turf blades and more realistic color can cost up to $8 per square foot installed.
Artificial turf never needs watering or mowing and retains its fresh appearance year round. It does require occasional rinsing with a hose to keep clean. The lifespan averages 15-25 years before replacement is needed.
Key Considerations
When selecting an alternative to grass, consider factors like:
- Climate – Choose options suited to your climate that require less watering.
- Sun exposure – Some plants thrive in full sun, others prefer shade.
- Traffic – Will kids or pets be running on the lawn?
- Pitch or slope – Steep areas prone to erosion may need artificial turf or erosion control plants.
- Aesthetics – Do you want a tidy, manicured look or more natural appearance?
- Maintenance – Realistic maintenance commitment based on your time and willingness.
Prioritize options that fit your climate, site conditions, lifestyle and budget.
Installing Grass Alternatives
Proper installation is key to success when replacing grass lawns:
- Remove existing grass by sod cutting, herbicide treatment or solarization with clear plastic.
- Test soil and amend with compost or fertilizer if needed.
- Level any uneven areas for a smooth finish.
- Lay weed blocking landscape fabric over soil for artificial turf or creeping plants.
- Follow seeding or planting instructions for the type of alternative lawn.
- Water thoroughly after planting and provide regular irrigation until established.
Consult an experienced landscaper or read guidelines specific to your selected lawn alternative for best results.
Ongoing Care
While most grass alternatives require less maintenance, some basic care is still needed:
- Watering – Water during dry periods for plants, or rinse artificial turf.
- Weeding – Keep unwanted weeds from taking root, especially the first year.
- Mowing – Native grasses and some clovers need occasional trimming.
- Edging – Keep edges neat against fences, borders and beds.
- Fertilizing – Apply organic or slow release fertilizer for some plants.
- Pest control – Monitor for bugs, diseases or animals digging in yard.
Routine care keeps alternative lawns healthy and looking their best. Still far less work than traditional grass upkeep.
Cost Comparison
| Lawn Type | Installation Cost per 1000 sq ft | Annual Care Cost per 1000 sq ft |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Grass | $100 | $350 |
| Clover | $60 | $80 |
| Groundcovers | $150 | $50 |
| Native Grasses | $100 | $60 |
| Artificial Turf | $700 | $50 |
This table compares the initial installation and ongoing annual care costs for 1000 square feet of different grass alternatives. Artificial turf has the highest upfront cost but saves money long term when the reduced yearly maintenance costs are factored in. The other planted options offer big savings compared to standard grass.
Conclusion
For homeowners looking to save money and effort, replacing thirsty and labor-intensive grass lawns with alternative solutions makes sense. Options like clover, groundcovers, native grasses and artificial turf can reduce costs while still providing an attractive landscape. Proper installation and some basic ongoing care will keep these solutions looking great for years to come. With a little research, you can find the right grass alternative to fit your climate, lifestyle and budget.
