10 Grass Alternatives for a Greener Yard

More homeowners are ditching traditional grass lawns in favor of alternatives that offer a myriad of benefits. 

Research finds that the growing popularity of lawn alternatives is likely due to environmental, economic, and aesthetic benefits. With increasing concerns about water scarcity and sustainability, this trend is expected to continue.1

So, if you’re looking to replace your grass, here are grass alternatives that can change your yard into a sustainable, vibrant space. 

1. Micro Clover

10 Grass Alternatives for a Greener Yard - clover lawn ss1764559307
Image Credit: Patryk Kosmider/Shutterstock

A fantastic alternative, micro clover is low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and stays green throughout the year. It’s also a nitrogen-fixing plant, which means it naturally fertilizes the soil. Clover lawns are soft underfoot and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

2. Creeping Thyme

10 Grass Alternatives for a Greener Yard - creeping thyme dp205318572
Image Credit: Ruvo233/Deposit Photos

This fragrant herb creates a beautiful, dense mat that can withstand foot traffic. It requires minimal watering and mowing, and its purple flowers add a splash of color to the landscape.

3. Sedum

10 Grass Alternatives for a Greener Yard - sedum ss2375002349
Image Credit: delobol/Shutterstock

Succulent groundcovers, sedum varieties come in various colors and textures. They are incredibly drought-tolerant, requiring little water once established. They’re also low-maintenance and can suppress weed growth.

4. Ornamental Grasses

10 Grass Alternatives for a Greener Yard - hakone ornamental grass ss2034611819
Image Credit: Rosalind Kirk/Shutterstock

These grasses offer a unique visual appeal with their graceful movements and varied textures. They are generally drought-tolerant and require little or no mowing compared to traditional lawns.

5. Moss

10 Grass Alternatives for a Greener Yard - algae moss dp203775148
Image Credit: khlongwangchao/Deposit Photos

Perfect for shady areas, moss creates a lush, green carpet that requires no mowing or fertilizing. It thrives in moist environments and adds a touch of whimsy to the landscape.

6. Dichondra

10 Grass Alternatives for a Greener Yard - dichondra dp492031982
Image Credit: orestligetka.ukr.net/Deposit Photos

This creeping perennial forms a dense, soft mat of tiny round leaves. It is low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and can withstand moderate foot traffic. Dichondra is also salt-tolerant, making it suitable for coastal areas.

7. Blue Star Creeper

10 Grass Alternatives for a Greener Yard - blue star creeper dp385515820
Image Credit: ChWeiss/Deposit Photos

This fast-growing groundcover boasts delicate blue flowers and thrives in full sun or partial shade. It requires minimal watering and mowing and is known for its ability to suppress weeds.

8. Corsican Mint

10 Grass Alternatives for a Greener Yard - corsican mint ss2177023411
Image Credit: Michaela Pilch/Shutterstock

This aromatic herb releases a delightful minty scent when stepped on. It forms a dense mat of tiny leaves and requires minimal care. Corsican mint is also drought-tolerant and can tolerate some shade.

9. Lippia

10 Grass Alternatives for a Greener Yard - lippia ss1830294932
Image Credit: gcafotografia/Shutterstock

This versatile groundcover comes in various leaf colors and textures. It is drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and attracts pollinators with its small, colorful flowers. Lippia is also known for its ability to withstand heavy foot traffic.

10. Beach Strawberry

10 Grass Alternatives for a Greener Yard - beach strawberry ss2388508587
Image Credit: Alina M. Darkhovsky/Shutterstock

This low-growing perennial produces edible fruit and attractive foliage. It thrives in sandy soils and requires minimal watering once established. Beach strawberries are a great choice for coastal landscapes and edible gardens.

By choosing a grass alternative, you can create a beautiful, sustainable, and low-maintenance outdoor space that benefits both you and the environment.

Source:

  1. sciencedirect.com
davin
Website | + posts

Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.