I'm in the North Bay area, close to San Francisco, where it gets pretty dry for about 5-6 months a year. Recently, I bought a house and have been making over the front yard for lower maintenance. I've replaced most of the grass with rocks and put in a flagstone path. Now, I have a strip about 5-8 feet wide around the house, which has two Japanese maples. I want to know what green options I have that require little or no mowing and low water. I'm considering native grasses, microclover, or maybe even ivy—though I'm unsure about that last one. Any suggestions?
3 Answers
I think buffalo grass could be a good fit for you! Once it's established, it goes dormant during dry spells but perks back up with rainfall. Just make sure to check if it’ll suit your area!
If you're worried about fire safety around your home, it's usually best to avoid flammable plants close to the house. Consider using rocks instead, but plenty of people still have non-flammable plants nearby, so you have options! Maybe even look into foxtail ferns or dwarf mondo grass for a nice look.
I would steer clear of ivy since it's invasive and tends to attract rodents. Instead, consider plants like creeping thyme, Rupturewort (also known as Green Carpet), or even some sedum varieties. They’re great for ground cover and won't take over your yard!
Thanks for the tips! I definitely want to keep it safe and pretty.