The suburban lawn has long been considered a symbol of the American dream, but its ecological impact is significant. While a lush green lawn may be aesthetically pleasing, the maintenance of turfgrass involves the use of harmful chemicals and a significant amount of water. In fact, turfgrass covers more than three times the area of any food crop in the United States and consumes nearly one-third of all residential water.
To address these environmental concerns, many homeowners are exploring alternatives to traditional lawns. One option is to replace turfgrass with low-growing ground covers or meadow grasses, which can be mowed and provide a more sustainable landscaping solution. Alternatively, some homeowners are opting for herbal lawns, which are mowable mixes of ground-cover species that can withstand foot traffic.
Oregon State University has been a pioneer in developing alternative lawn options, which combine lawn grasses with drought-resistant broadleaf plants. These mixes require minimal maintenance, with infrequent mowing and minimal water usage. While they may not offer the same manicured appearance as a traditional lawn, they provide a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative.
Commercially available herbal lawn and alternative lawn mixes are now available from companies like Pro Times and Sunmark. Additionally, gardeners can create their own custom mixes using guidelines from OSU, allowing for flexibility and experimentation with different species.
Before making any changes to your lawn, it’s important to check local regulations and homeowner’s association rules. Some communities have strict requirements for traditional lawns, but others offer incentives for homeowners who choose alternative landscaping options. By exploring alternatives to traditional lawns, homeowners can reduce their environmental impact and create a more sustainable landscape for the future.
