Eco-Friendly Grass Alternatives
Synthetic turf requires zero water, mowing, or chemical fertilizers. It’s a one-time installation that can last for over two decades.
Traditional grass is anything but kind to the ecosystem. It requires large volumes of water, mowing that wastes energy, and often fossil fuel. Worse still, it acts as a parasite that stops native grasses and wildflowers from blooming.
For those reasons, it might be the time to look for some alternatives to a traditional lawn.
Clover lawns: soft and self-fertilizing
Clover is soft underfoot, stays green, and doesn’t thirst for water like turfgrass. It’s also excellent at fixing nitrogen, which means it turns atmospheric nitrogen into forms that plants can use, and thus naturally fertilizes its own soil. Therefore, it has no need for chemical boosters, require little maintenance, while still being natural.
Moss gardens
Moss gardens are lush and green even in shady spots where grass would usually struggle to flourish. Like clover, moss needs little water and no fertilizer. Furthermore, walking on moss feels like stepping on a soft green carpet. It’s an excellent way to have a fairy-tale garden that is eco-friendly and sustainable.
Native grasses
Part of the reason why traditional turfgrass can be so hard to maintain is that it simply doesn’t belong there. Many turfgrasses are non-native species that didn’t evolve in the local climate, soil, and ecosystem.
Native grasses are an eco-friendlier way to have a natural lawn and need much less maintenance. They don’t need as much water, fertilizer, or mowing as non-native grasses would. Plus, the local wildlife loves them.
Artificial turf
Many may still associate artificial turf with sports fields and “unnatural looking” grass. However, many types can mimic turfgrass perfectly. Best of all, synthetic turf requires zero water, mowing, or chemical fertilizers. It’s a one-time installation that can last for over two decades. It looks and feels more natural than ever and guarantees almost maintenance-free greenery.
Ground cover plants
Ground cover plants like creeping thyme, sedum, and ajuga look beautiful and make the garden more colorful and diverse. They’re tough, grow low, and spread quickly. Better yet, they need far less water and maintenance than grass, all the while attracting bees and butterflies.
Flowers are beautiful and support local ecosystems, so garden lovers cannot go wrong with them.
Greener gardens
Switching to an eco-friendly lawn alternative saves water and reduces chemical use. Homeowner can also make good use of the time dedicated to lawn upkeep. More importantly, greener gardens support local ecosystems by providing habitats for bees, butterflies, and birds.
Get expert advice
Artificial turf may not be as natural as some other lawn alternatives, but it is by far the lowest maintenance, looks identical to natural lawn, and is still more eco-friendly. Some regions may have HOA regulations that require having a lawn, which would make artificial turf the most reasonable alternative. Talk to a turf installer and find out your options.
TurfWash is an artificial turf cleaning company in the Phoenix Metro area offering safe, odorless cleaning and repair for artificial turf. We are a family business that has over 23 years of experience in the artificial turf industry. We take pride in our in-depth knowledge of artificial turf and our passion for providing excellent service. Give us a call at 602-560-8582.
