Buzz
As temperatures climb across numerous regions, lawn maintenance season is in full swing, and the challenge of preventing grass from browning during the summer heat is imminent. With many areas under drought-related water restrictions, our lawns often bear the brunt, as water is prioritized for essential needs. However, there's increasing interest in drought-resistant or drought-tolerant lawn alternatives, offering a functional yard without excessive water consumption.
Is a drought-tolerant lawn suitable for your needs?
When transitioning from a grass lawn to drought-tolerant or drought-resistant plants, the primary consideration is how you intend to utilize the space. For activities like barbecuing, playing sports, or hosting gatherings, you’ll need plants that can withstand foot traffic. If your focus is on aesthetics, you can select from an array of flowering or evergreen plants that maintain their beauty even in the hottest and driest summer conditions.
Another option is to design a patio space and use plants for borders, tailored to your preference—constructing a patio with materials like pea gravel, flagstone, or crushed granite requires no water at all.
Remember that drought-tolerant plants are naturally suited to dry conditions and will flourish in them, while drought-resistant plants perform better than water-dependent varieties but still require some moisture. Your local climate and growing conditions will help you decide which types are most suitable.
Alternative to traditional lawns for drought-prone areas
Popular options for drought-tolerant, walkable ground cover include creeping thyme, stonecrop, and snow in summer. These plants are easy to cultivate, though starting them from seed may require indoor sprouting.
For vibrant, foot-traffic-resistant ground cover, consider affordable choices like Herniaria Glabra, which forms a lush green carpet in summer and turns red in winter. This low-growing, spreading plant has deep roots, making it highly drought-tolerant. Another option is Turkish Veronica, which can withstand occasional foot traffic, remains low-maintenance, and doesn’t require mowing.
Alternative to traditional lawns for drought resistance
A widely favored drought-resistant, walkable ground cover is clover, available in various colors and leaf sizes. Clover can be mowed similarly to grass, or you can choose varieties that remain close to the ground.
Another straightforward and cost-effective option for an evergreen lawn substitute is Roman Chamomile. This drought-resistant plant requires minimal water, stays low, and can be trimmed and divided easily. For a hardy, low-growing vine suitable for high-traffic areas, consider creeping wire vine, which remains green even in dry conditions.
Additional hardy plants to explore
If the area where you’re replacing grass doesn’t require foot traffic, numerous plant options can maintain their color and thrive in hot, dry climates. Cacti, succulents, and native wildflowers are excellent choices for surviving summer heat. To ensure you’re on the right track, consult your local university gardening extension, parks department, or gardening club. Seeking advice from local experts helps you select plants suited to your specific climate and may provide valuable maintenance tips.
