How do I start the switch?

The process of switching to an alternative lawn is different for every yard, but there’s a few common steps you’ll need to consider.

 

1. Make a plan

The first step is planning out exactly what you want your alternative lawn to look like. For some options, this can be as simple as noting that you’ll need to replace all your grass with a new plant mix, or that once you stop mowing your grass you’ll need a pathway to get to your back shed. If you’re going for a more decorated or divided yard, bringing in a landscaping expert might be the best choice to figure out the optimal layout. For most plans, it’s a good idea to get measurements of your yard with structures included so you have a clear idea of how much space you’re going to be converting. 

 

2. Get approval

If your neighborhood has a homeowners’ association (HOA), check to see what they do and do not allow in a yard. If your plans don’t work under your current HOA restrictions, you’ll need to contact the HOA and discuss loosening or removing the restrictions. For help with this, check out the HOA Help page. 

 

3. Choose materials

Once your plan is approved, you’ll need to pick which plant species and decorative objects you’ll actually use. For finding local plant species, check out the Organizations page for resources dedicated to helping spread native plants. If you’re including walkways, garden beds, planters, irrigation, water collection, or any other installations, decide what materials will work best for your needs. 

 

4. Get to work

If you’re changing your yard in such a way that a lot of work needs to be done, consider hiring a landscaping company. Although this can be expensive depending on your plans, it makes the conversion process a lot easier on your part. One option is to hire a professional for the biggest or most difficult parts of the process and DIY the rest. 

 

5. Maintain your yard

Although you'll no longer need to mow your lawn every week, alternative lawns still need a little bit of upkeep every now and then. Invasive species should be weeded out to keep your lawn and the local ecosystem healthy. It’s a good idea to learn to identify these when you first make the switch to an alternative lawn so you can keep your eye out for them, especially if you’re going no-mow with a grass lawn. 

​

 

Once your new alternative lawn is all in place, sit back and enjoy the outdoor space you’ve created for yourself and your local wildlife! 

 

Have you recently switched to an alternative lawn? We’d love to see it! Send us pictures and tell us about your alternative lawn journey. Contact info can be found here.

​

​

See citations for all information on this website here.