If you’re already enjoying the relaxed pace of lake life, you may not want to spend your weekends tending to lawn maintenance. This time-consuming and seemingly endless chore can be a passion for some, but it doesn’t rank high on the list of favorite activities for those who prefer a low-maintenance lawn and lifestyle. Think about the time and energy—not to mention the cost—of caring for a plush green lawn. There’s mowing, pesticides, fertilizer, water consumption, or lack thereof. And even if you are fortunate enough to employ a landscaping service to take care of the maintenance, the costs—both out-of-pocket and environmental—still exist.
Reducing the amount of turf on your property doesn’t have to mean a reduction in your property’s aesthetic appeal. Instead, you can strategize your lake landscape in ways that can protect the environment and also save you time and money. From sustainable water features and stunning hardscapes to lush groundcovers and native plants, here are some low-maintenance lawn alternatives that will bring natural beauty to your outdoor spaces with little to no maintenance.
Sustainable Water Features
Want to reduce your water bill, recycle rainwater, and add natural beauty to your lake landscape? Then a sustainable water feature might be in your future. This cutting-edge design features a multi-faceted infinity pond with a rainwater harvesting system utilizing natural stones and a biological filtration system that continuously maintains its crystal-clear water. A stunning example built by the team at Deck and Patio, the water feature blends seamlessly with the natural landscape and includes waterfalls, a stream, and a second lower-level pond. This innovative New York-based company has developed expertise in sustainable water features that capture rainwater from rooftops. They also specialize in permeable paver walkways and patios.
Native Landscaping
If you live by the water’s edge, you most likely already value the beauty of the natural landscape and the lake shoreline. But did you know you can design a landscape that will actually protect the water and the surrounding land? It’s called native landscaping, and it is essential to preserving the ecosystem of your waterside retreat. Native plants that grow in the water, along the shoreline, and beyond provide a natural habitat for both wildlife and marine life. Plus, they also play a critical role in maintaining healthy water quality.
Native plants in a lake environment have far-reaching root systems that have adapted to thriving in and around the water. So, the roots and stems of the plant life work to defend against water pollutants that can run off sloping or neighboring landscapes. In addition, the extensive root systems help to naturally minimize erosion while creating a favorable habitat and food source for fish and waterfowl.
When selecting native plants for your area, take into consideration the following criteria:
- How much will the plant proliferate and spread?
- How tall will the plants grow?
- When will the plants bloom?
- Are you planting your species in the right location for growing success?
Check with your local nursery or landscape service to select the right plants for your climate and growing conditions. For an abbreviated list of native plants known for their success in northern shoreline areas, click here.
Groundcover
Groundcovers offer an exceptional alternative to high-maintenance grass lawns. These lush plantings spread evenly across your ground instead of growing tall and upwards, so they require no mowing and little to no maintenance. There are numerous varieties to choose from, with all sorts of different textures and densities depending on your preference. In addition, many groundcovers are considered nitrogen-fixing, and most can enhance your soil and choke out weeds.
From annuals to perennials, groundcovers include flowering varieties that can bring beautiful seasonal color to your landscape. Green clover and micro-clover offer popular soil conditioners that are virtually drought resistant and stay green even through the scorching summer. You can also plant edible groundcovers, such as strawberries and low-growing herbs like mint, oregano, thyme, and rosemary if your climate is conducive. From shade-loving groundcovers like bunchberry and wild ginger to those that thrive in damp or soggy soil conditions, there are many varieties suitable for your lake landscape. Check with your nursery or landscaping service to discover the perfect plants for your gardening zone and sunlight requirements.
Ornamental Grasses
If you prefer the look of a plush and beautifully untamed landscape, then ornamental or native grasses are your perfect turf alternative. These willowy low-maintenance grasses can thrive in many soil conditions and are typically drought resistant. In addition, they are prized for having little to no disease and pest problems and usually do not require fertilizer. Variety types range from cool-season and warm-season grasses to running-growth and clumping-growth types. Running-growth grasses can spread rapidly or creep slowly, and they offer a perfect solution to slow down erosion on slopes and around the shoreline. Clumping ornamental grasses grow in tufts and offer erosion protection when planted in groups.
Most ornamental and native grasses thrive best in sunny climates, and clump grasses can even be cut back to encourage new growth in the spring. You can also split clump grasses and replant them if they become too large and unruly. Click here to discover some of the most popular drought-resistant ornamental grasses.
Decks, Patios, Porches
Wood decks and paved patios offer a fantastic turf alternative. Plus, they extend your living space outside, which is the best feature of lake living. This covered patio overlooking South Carolina’s Lake Keowee incorporates a rustic wood-beamed ceiling, rock-clad support columns, and stone pavers, creating an inviting open-air space that integrates harmoniously with the natural landscape. Cozy porch swing beds and a plush area rug underfoot create al fresco creature comforts for family and friends. This spacious outdoor oasis brings beauty and value to the property without all the lawn maintenance. Lush potted plants and bordering shrubs blend seamlessly with the existing native trees that surround the shoreline.
If you’re eager to learn more about eco-friendly, low-maintenance lawn alternatives and other ways to cut down on lawn care costs, visit Eartheasy. From all of us at Lake Homes, here’s wishing you a beautiful and carefree outdoor season by the water.