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The average homeowner in the United States spends around $50-$300 per month on general landscaping maintenance, Forbes reports. The exact cost depends on where you live, the size of your garden, and the specific tasks that need done on a regular basis. Fortunately, you can keep upkeep and costs to a minimum by opting for easy, low-maintenance landscaping ideas.
Use crushed stone in beds
Crushed stone is a low-maintenance alternative to mulch to use in your garden beds. Whereas mulch needs to be replaced each season, crushed stone lasts virtually forever and requires little maintenance to stay looking good. Keep in mind, weeds may eventually start to grow in between the rocks, and these can be time-consuming to remove. Fortunately, landscaping fabric can be used as a low-maintenance method of keeping weeds at bay. Crushed stone is also available in a host of different colors, shapes, and sizes, which means you can choose a type that perfectly complements the unique aesthetic of your unique home and garden.
Opt for climate-specific or artificial grass
While it can be easier to get rid of natural grass completely, you may not want to do that. In this case, planting grass that grows in your specific local climate can be a low-maintenance option. For example, Buffalograss is native to much of the United States, including Texas, Montana, North Dakota, and New Mexico. It’s short and doesn’t need much water to thrive. In the Northeast, on the other hand, ryegrass and fescue are good choices; these varieties are both shade- and drought-resistant, and can also withstand heavy foot traffic. Alternatively, artificial grass is another low maintenance option. It looks beautiful and doesn’t require expensive or time-consuming upkeep – so, say goodbye to bug problems and dead grass spots, as well as costly lawn equipment and toxic fertilizers and chemicals. Artificial grass can be kept clean simply with a quick hose down, along with a brush and deep rinse at least once a month. Also, be sure to look for non-toxic artificial grass that’s safe for both children and pets.
Add potted plants
Potted plants aren’t just easy to care for – they also add convenience and versatility to your garden. Potted plants can easily be switched out and moved around as needed, which means you can change the look and feel of your garden easily. And, if you’re throwing an outdoor party, for example, you can quickly rearrange your plants as part of the decor. If you’re looking to add an attractive pop of color with potted plants, you can match flowers along with the seasons. For example, pastels and whites are perfect for the spring and summer months, while oranges, reds, and yellows set the scene for fall.
Landscaping maintenance doesn’t need to be costly or time-consuming. By opting for crushed stone over mulch, climate-specific or artificial grass, and potted plants, you can create and maintain a beautiful garden with as little time, effort, and expense as possible.