Changes in climate and watering restrictions are changing the way people think about today's yard designs. Keeping a traditional lawn requires a lot of time and money in upkeep (mowing, fertilizing, re-seeding, watering) and requires a lot of not very environmentally friendly maintenance (gas-powered mowers, application of chemical fertilizers & pesticides). Here are some grass free landscaping alternatives: 1) Ground cover - clover, low-growing evergreen plants & ivy. 2) Rocks - decorative rocks intermingled with native plants. 3) Mulch - less expensive than rocks, available in different colors & types and can be homeowner prepared by chipping your own trimmed branches or at various city grounds maintenance departments for free. 4) Water features - pondless waterfalls. 5) Concrete or patio stones - once installed, patios don't require significant maintenance. You can place potted plants & container foliage around perimeter. 6) Decking - wood or composite material. Won't require level of routine maintenance needed to keep a lush lawn. Implementing these grass free landscape suggestions into your current yard design will save you time, money and will be good for the environment which is good for everybody.

Blog inspired by article featured on distinctiveliving.com and can be seen here:  http://www.distinctiveliving.com/the-grass-is-not-always-greener/