Low-Maintenance Landscaping That Works With Your Schedule

You don’t need to spend every weekend gardening to have a beautiful yard. With the right choices, you can create a low-maintenance landscape that’s easy to care for and still looks fantastic. Here are some ideas to help you design a space that’s both functional and fuss-free.

1. Stick With Tough, Adaptable Plants
Look for plants that thrive in your region without a lot of extra watering or care. Drought-tolerant perennials, ornamental grasses, and native shrubs are all great choices.

2. Mulch Everything
Mulch is one of the best time-saving tools in landscaping. It keeps weeds down, holds in moisture, and gives beds a clean, finished look. Reapply it once a year and you’re good to go.

3. Simplify Your Layout
Instead of cramming in a variety of plants, use repetition. Plant large groups of the same species, and group plants with similar needs together. This makes watering and maintenance much more efficient.

4. Add Hardscaping
Pathways, patios, gravel borders, and raised beds not only look great, they reduce the amount of space you have to weed, water, or mow. Use stone, wood, or pavers for easy-care features that last.

5. Automate Watering
Set up drip irrigation or a soaker hose system with a timer. It saves water and takes the guesswork out of watering, especially in the summer.

6. Replace Some Lawn
Lawns can be high-maintenance. Replace some of that turf with ground covers, native plants, or gravel areas. You’ll mow less and enjoy your yard more.

With just a few thoughtful changes, you can create a low-maintenance landscape that saves you time and energy while still looking great every season.