Spring officially begins in 1 week which means it’s time to focus on your yard! Most of us want a well-kept, attractive lawn but we don't always have room in our schedules for strenuous upkeep. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with low-maintenance landscaping options that don’t skimp on the curb appeal!
native species
If you want a laid-back lawn, native species are the way to go. These plants are already perfectly adapted to the area’s ecosystem and require less fertilizer, water, and overall care.
perennials
Unlike annuals, perennials come back year after year. Some perennials are more forgiving than others and making sure you choose plants that do well in your hardiness zone is a must. Check out these lists to find the best perennials for Ohio and Michigan.
organic mulch alternatives
Covering your flower beds with mulch can be great for cutting down on weeds and preventing erosion, but organic mulch can be a time and money suck since it needs to be replaced often. Opt instead for rubber mulch or gravel which requires far less refreshing.
ground cover
Eliminate some of your mowing area with a gorgeous ground cover. These types of plants can be added to your yard or flower beds for a plush alternative to turf. Ground covers also help to prevent weeds as they offer less space for them to take root. Here are some easy ground covers that grow well in the Midwest.
clover
Clover can be used as a ground cover on its own or you can include it with your lawn seed mix. Clover will do wonders for your yard if you don’t have a ton of time for maintenance, plus it’s eco-friendly! It reduces weeds, is drought-tolerant, attracts pollinators, and requires little mowing. It also supplies nitrogen to itself using beneficial soil bacteria so it reduces the need for fertilizers and grows well in nearly any soil or environment. Clover is dog friendly as it doesn’t yellow like turf and it’s highly palatable to other pests, such as bunnies or rodents, which will keep them away from your flowers.
ornamental grass
Finding ornamental grasses that do well in your hardiness zone is an easy way to add movement and different textures to your garden. Native grasses are the best option! Some can act as a lawn replacement that needs little watering and can be mowed if desired.
evergreen trees
Evergreen trees are highly durable and tolerate a variety of growing conditions. Unlike deciduous trees, you won’t need to spend your fall days raking leaf piles. They’re a great way to add greenery and privacy to any yard.