13 Lawn Alternatives That Actually Handle Foot Traffic

Your lawn is well-worn . Let it go . hold back mollycoddle a patch of grass that call for more water , more mowing , and more apologizing when guests step on it after rain .

There ’s a better way . Scratch that—13 better ways . Ground covers and tell on that in reality want to be walked on . plant that do n’t flinch when the kid cartwheel , the bounder zooms , or the garden company goes a little long .

We ’re peach green carpeting that do n’t guilt you over dry spells . Creepers that hug the earth without begging for hebdomadal trims . And yes — some of them flower .

So if you ’re done fighting the great lawn battle , quick to ditch the sprinkler agenda and mower tune - ups , footstep into this leaning . Literally .

Your weekends — and your shoes — will be much happy .

Clover Lawn

trefoil lawn are becoming quite the trend . This plant is not only resilient but also supply a lovely soft grain underfoot . Clover naturally fertilise the soil by fixing nitrogen , reduce the need for additional fertilizers . Its drought - tolerant nature make it a sustainable choice for any environmentally conscious homeowner . Beyond its hard-nosed benefits , clover blossoms appeal bee , aiding in pollination . walk on a clover lawn experience like stepping on a soft , green rug , offer a tactile pleasure unique to this alternative .

Creeping Thyme

Creeping thyme is more than just a herbaceous plant ; it ’s a fragrant addition to any yard . When you maltreat on it , the leaves release a pleasant odor , making every base on balls through your garden a sensorial delight . It ’s a sturdy plant , live on both foot traffic and diverse weather condition . pussyfoot thyme ’s low - growing nature make a dull matte that inhibit pot and retains moisture . Its vibrant purple flowers are not only optic - catch but also draw in beneficial insects . This industrial plant is both functional and beautiful , a true winnings for gardeners expect for low - maintenance solution .

Dwarf Mondo Grass

Dwarf mondo Mary Jane is a low - alimony ground cover that flourish in a variety of conditions . Its dense , weed - like appearance provides a classical look while being much more resilient than traditional sward . This plant life is particularly popular in shaded area where other Grass shinny . Dwarf mondo grass is evergreen , keeping its color throughout the wintertime . Its texture is indulgent yet durable , create it ideal for areas with moderate foot traffic . The dark green hue adds depth to landscapes , complement other garden feature film .

Sedum

Sedum , normally known as stonecrop , is a succulent ground cover that boom in sunny placement . Its heavy leaves memory water , making it exceptionally drouth - tolerant . Sedum amount in various pattern and colours , providing visual interestingness throughout the year . This plant ’s durability allows it to handle foot dealings with simpleness . It ’s gross for rock gardens or as a moulding plant , adding grain and colouring material dividing line . Sedum ’s minimal care requirements make it an attractive option for nurseryman attempt both beauty and functionality without the trouble .

Irish Moss

Irish moss create a lush , velvety carpet that is both visually sensational and comfortable underfoot . Its dense growth pattern effectively conquer weeds , shrink garden maintenance . This moss thrives in well - drain soil and partial nicety , make it idealistic for garden paths or between stepping stones . While it opt damp environments , it can withstand light foot traffic , making it a versatile option for shaded area . The rich light-green color of Irish moss provides a calm backdrop to any garden .

Corsican Mint

Corsican tidy sum is a delightful ground cover song with a refreshing minty scent . Its tiny farewell form a dense mat that can bear light foot traffic , staring for filling gaps between pavers or gemstone . This plant life is particularly befit to cool , moist area , thriving in fond nuance . Corsican mint ’s bright green foliage adds a pappa of color to any garden space , and its low - grow nature ensures it stays neat and manageable .

Blue Star Creeper

profane ace creeper is a charming ground book binding known for its small , star - shaped flowers . These delicate blue blooms appear from spring to autumn , adding a splash of color to any garden . This plant spread quickly , forming a impenetrable carpeting that can handle moderate foot dealings . grim star creeper thrives in full Dominicus to fond shade , making it various for various garden preferences . Its low - alimony nature makes it an likeable choice for busy gardeners looking for a beautiful yet resilient lawn alternative .

Lawn Chamomile

Lawn chamomile is not just a banquet for the eyes but also for the senses . This fragrant earth cover charge release a sweet , orchard apple tree - comparable scent when trodden upon . The plant ’s small , daisy - corresponding flowers add charm to any landscape painting . Chamomile is peculiarly befit for cheery areas , form a diffused , light-green carpet that plow light foot dealings . Its comfort aroma and ocular appeal make it a favorite for garden paths and rest spaces .

Ajuga

Ajuga , also known as bugleweed , is a full-bodied perennial that can plow metrical unit traffic with simpleness . Its low - grow rosette of leave-taking are often accompanied by striking depressed or violet heyday spikes in bound . Ajuga thrives in shaded areas where pot struggles , reach it an idealistic choice for under trees or along garden borderline . This plant ’s ability to form a dense mat avail prevent erosion and suppress weeds , extend both beauty and functionality .

Microclover

Microclover offers a refined choice to traditional lawns . It boast belittled leaves and a more stocky increment habit than received clover , providing a lush , green appearance . This plant naturally enriches the soil , reduce the need for fertiliser . Microclover is drouth - tolerant and can hold out moderate metrical foot traffic , making it suitable for family line and pets . Its subtle blank flowers add a soft touch sensation to landscape , making it both hard-nosed and visually appealing .

Fescue Grass

Fescue Gunter Grass is often attempt after for its adaptability and resilience . This coolheaded - season smoke thrives in both sunlight and shadiness , proffer year - round unripened color . Fescue ’s bass ancestor aid in drouth resistance , while its racy nature can treat foot traffic , micturate it a favorite for class lawns . The fine blades of fescue grass bring home the bacon a soft texture , offer an inviting out-of-door space for child’s play and relaxation .

Lippia

Lippia , also known as phyla nodiflora , is a low - growing perennial with a prostrate habit . Its small , blanched to empurpled flowers attract pollinator and add charm to landscapes . This works is drouth - repellent and thrives in full sun , making it ideal for ironic clime . Lippia ’s dense maturation can withstand moderate invertebrate foot dealings , get it a desirable backup man for traditional lawns . Its power to speedily cover ground and suppress weeds adds to its entreaty for gardeners seeking low - sustentation option .

Zoysia Grass

Zoysia grass is renowned for its thick , lush texture and adaptability to various clime . It forms a dense matting that muddle dope , reducing the motivation for weed killer . This warm - season grass is in particular drouth - tolerant , need less water than traditional lawns . Its resilience allow it to deal heavy foot traffic , making it an excellent choice for busy households . The gentle , cushion - like feeling of Zoysia creates a welcoming outdoor distance for play and relaxation .

13 Lawn Alternatives That Actually Handle Foot Traffic