The biggest mistake homeowners make when forgoing a grass lawn is not creating clear edges or boundaries, which can look disorganized. “However, there is no reason your lawn has to be a 3-inch field of Kentucky Blue mown weekly and treated with fertilizers and herbicides,” says Blythe Yost, Tilly’s co-founder and head landscape designer. Here are five easy-care alternatives to a grass lawn that are sure to step up your home’s curb appeal. One great option is white dwarf clover, known for its dense green leaves and small white flowers. It grows best in partial shade or full sun and “should be seeded initially on moist, well-groomed topsoil,” says Yost. “It might require yearly over-seeding to keep it dense and deter weeds.” Pro tip: When installing a stone or gravel area, use a geotextile fabric barrier. This will help reduce weed growth and keep your gravel yard, patio, or pathway as low-maintenance as possible.
