The Best Guide on How to Create Low-Maintenance Landscaping for Your Home

Creating a beautiful yard doesn’t have to mean spending every weekend pulling weeds, trimming plants, or constantly watering. Low-maintenance landscaping offers an appealing solution for homeowners who want a stunning outdoor space with minimal effort. Whether you’re rethinking your backyard, front yard, or the area around your house, there are simple strategies to achieve a hassle-free, beautiful yard.

What Is Low-Maintenance Landscaping?

Low-maintenance landscaping focuses on designing outdoor spaces that require minimal upkeep while still looking lush and vibrant. This approach is perfect for busy homeowners or anyone looking to save time and resources.

Why Planning Ahead Makes Low-Maintenance Landscaping Even Easier

Taking the time to plan your landscaping before you dig in pays off in more ways than one. When you think through how you’ll actually use your yard—whether it’s for family BBQs, quiet evenings reading under a tree, or simply creating curb appeal for admiring neighbors—you set the stage for a space that fits your lifestyle and doesn’t demand constant upkeep.

By mapping out your priorities, you can:

• Designate areas for play, relaxation, or entertaining, making sure every inch of your yard works hard for you.
• Choose plant varieties and layouts that naturally suit your needs, minimizing the need for replanting or rearranging down the line.
• Avoid common pitfalls, like overplanting or placing high-maintenance species in prominent spots.

With some thoughtful planning up front, you’ll spend less time fussing with your landscape—and more time enjoying it.

Here’s how you can create low-maintenance landscaping for your home.

1. Choose Low-Maintenance Landscaping Plants

When it comes to creating a low-maintenance landscape, the plants you choose play a significant role in reducing the time, effort, and resources required to keep your yard looking its best. The right plants can thrive with minimal care, resist pests and diseases, and survive in various weather conditions. Here’s a deeper dive into how to select and use low-maintenance plants effectively.

When to Remove and Replace High-Maintenance Trees and Plants

Sometimes, even the most impressive tree or lush shrub can become more trouble than it’s worth. If your yard is starting to feel like a full-time job because of one or two particular plants, it might be time to reconsider their place in your landscape.

Consider removing and replacing a tree or plant if:

• It’s classified as invasive and is taking over your garden or threatening native species.
• The roots are causing damage to your home’s foundation, sidewalks, or underground pipes.
• It drops problematic fruits, nuts, or debris (like spiky seed pods) that create mess or hazards.
• It’s growing too close to your house, clogging gutters, or shading out other valuable plants.
• It simply outgrows its space or quickly becomes unmanageable, requiring constant pruning.

Replacing high-maintenance or invasive species with hardier, low-care alternatives not only saves time and effort, but also supports local biodiversity. If you’re unsure whether a plant is adding or subtracting from your gardening peace of mind, consult a reputable nursery, your local extension service, or a certified arborist. They can offer tailored advice based on your region, soil, and goals for your yard.

The Impact of Invasive Plants and Trees on Yard Maintenance

Invasive species can quickly turn your low-maintenance yard into a high-maintenance headache. These aggressive plants and trees tend to spread rapidly, overwhelming your garden beds, crowding out your preferred plants, and disrupting the balance of your landscape.

• Constant Upkeep Required: Invasives often need frequent cutting back, pulling, or even complete removal to keep them from taking over.
• Displacement of Native Plants: Because they grow vigorously, invasive species easily outcompete native plants, making it harder for beneficial, low-care varieties to thrive.
• Increased Resource Use: To control invasives, you may find yourself using more water, fertilizer, and even chemical treatments—defeating the purpose of a low-maintenance approach.
• Harm to Wildlife: Many invasive plants and trees don’t support local wildlife, which depend on native plants for food and shelter. This can make your yard less inviting and reduce natural pest control.

Managing invasives often means more hours spent weeding, pruning, and monitoring, rather than enjoying your outdoor space. For a truly low-maintenance yard, prioritize non-invasive and native species from the start.

Preparing Your Soil for Success

Before you tuck any new plants into the ground, it pays to set the stage with a bit of soil preparation. Loosen the soil to a depth of around 12 inches in the area where you intend to plant—this gives roots plenty of room to spread out and take hold. As you work the soil, mix in some quality compost, like mushroom compost or organic matter from your own compost bin, to boost nutrients and encourage good drainage.

This simple step helps your plants establish stronger roots, improves water movement through the soil (no soggy roots here), and sets the foundation for healthier, more resilient growth—all with less work for you down the line.

A. Go for Native Plants

Native plants are your best allies in low-maintenance landscaping. These plants have evolved to thrive in your local climate, soil type, and weather conditions, making them more resilient and easier to care for. Native plants typically require:

• Less watering once established.
• Fewer fertilizers or soil amendments.
• Minimal pest control, as they naturally resist local pests.

For example, if you live in a dry region, plants like agave or yucca are excellent options. In temperate areas, flowering natives like coneflowers or black-eyed Susans provide beauty without much effort.

B. Focus on Perennials

Unlike annuals that need replanting each year, perennials return season after season. This not only saves you time but also reduces costs over the years.

Some low-maintenance perennial favorites include:

• Daylilies: Known for their vibrant blooms and hardiness.
• Hostas: Excellent for shaded areas around your home.
• Sedum: A drought-tolerant plant with unique foliage and flowers.
• Russian Sage: Adds a splash of purple and thrives in hot, dry conditions.

Planting perennials ensures consistent greenery or blooms without constant replacement.

C. Incorporate Drought-Tolerant Plants

Drought-tolerant plants are ideal for reducing watering needs, especially in arid or water-restricted areas. These plants store water efficiently and can go longer between watering sessions.

Some great drought-tolerant options include:

• Succulents: Low-maintenance and come in a variety of shapes and colors.
• Lavender: Adds a delightful fragrance and thrives in poor soil.
• Ornamental Grasses: Hardy and visually striking with little care.

Group drought-tolerant plants together for an eye-catching xeriscaped area that thrives without constant irrigation.

D. Use Evergreen Plants for Year-Round Appeal

Evergreens provide consistent greenery throughout the year, eliminating the need for seasonal replanting or heavy pruning. They are perfect for foundation plantings, hedges, or as standalone focal points.

Popular evergreen options include:

• Boxwood: Easy to shape and ideal for neat borders.
• Juniper: Comes in various sizes and forms, from ground covers to tall shrubs.
• Holly: Provides greenery and berries for winter interest.

Evergreens also reduce the need for seasonal cleanup, as they shed little compared to deciduous plants.

E. Add Ground Covers to Replace Grass

Grass is often the most labor-intensive part of a yard. Replacing sections of lawn with low-maintenance ground covers can save you hours of mowing, watering, and fertilizing.

Some ground covers to consider:

• Creeping Thyme: Releases a pleasant aroma when stepped on and requires minimal care.
• Clover: A durable and eco-friendly grass alternative.
• Moss: Perfect for shady, moist areas where grass struggles to grow.

Ground covers not only reduce your lawn area but also add texture and variety to your landscape.

F. Choose Plants with Low Pest and Disease Susceptibility

Plants that are resistant to pests and diseases reduce the need for pesticides and constant monitoring. When choosing plants, look for varieties labeled as “disease-resistant” or “pest-resistant.”

Some hardy options include:

• Marigolds: Natural pest repellents that add vibrant color.
• Bee Balm: Attracts pollinators but deters deer and rabbits.
• Rudbeckia: Resists most pests and thrives in a range of conditions.

These plants can help maintain a healthy yard without requiring extra effort on your part.

G. Use Plants with Long Bloom Seasons

To enjoy continuous color without constant replanting, select plants that bloom for extended periods. Long-blooming plants provide a steady source of beauty and require less maintenance to keep your yard vibrant.

Examples include:

• Coreopsis: Produces bright yellow blooms from spring to fall.
• Knock Out Roses: Low-maintenance roses that flower repeatedly throughout the season.
• Geraniums: Hardy and bloom profusely in a variety of conditions.

Planting these in clusters ensures that your yard always looks alive and inviting.

H. Space Plants Wisely

Crowded plants compete for nutrients, water, and sunlight, leading to more frequent maintenance. Proper spacing reduces overcrowding, encourages healthy growth, and minimizes pruning or thinning. When planting, always follow spacing guidelines for each plant type to give them room to thrive.

I. Select Specimen Trees for Impact With Minimal Upkeep

Specimen trees are a fantastic choice for adding visual interest to your landscape without saddling yourself with extra chores. When well-chosen, a single striking tree can anchor your front yard, provide shade, and deliver year-round beauty—all with remarkably little fuss.

The best part? Many specimen trees require very little ongoing care once established. Picks like Japanese maple, crape myrtle, or dogwood often need just occasional pruning and watering. Their strong structure and slow growth mean less frequent trimming and cleanup, freeing up your weekends for other things.

Consider planting a specimen tree as a living focal point. Position it strategically for maximum curb appeal—perhaps near your entryway, along a garden path, or to frame your porch. This one bold plant can minimize the need for beds packed with fussy annuals or tedious edging, letting you enjoy a stunning, low-maintenance landscape with just a smart placement.

2. Incorporate Mulch for Easy Weed Control

Mulching is a game-changer for low-maintenance landscaping. It suppresses weeds, retains soil moisture, and improves the overall look of your yard. Spread a layer of organic mulch like bark chips or pine needles around plants and garden beds. Not only does this cut down on weeding, but it also reduces the need for frequent watering.

3. Use Hardscaping to Reduce Grass Areas: A Low-Maintenance Landscaping Strategy

Maintaining a lush, green lawn can be one of the most time-consuming and resource-intensive aspects of yard care. Between mowing, watering, fertilizing, and aerating, it requires constant attention. Hardscaping provides a practical and stylish alternative, reducing the need for grass while enhancing the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space.

Here’s a detailed guide on how to use hardscaping to minimize grass areas in your yard and make your landscaping more manageable.

What is Hardscaping?

Hardscaping refers to the non-plant elements in your landscape design, such as pathways, patios, walls, and decorative features. Unlike grass or plants, hardscape features are permanent and require little to no maintenance once installed.

A. Replace Grass with Stone Patios or Decks

A well-designed patio or deck can serve as the focal point of your yard while eliminating the need for a grassy lawn. Patios can be made from materials like:

• Concrete: Durable and can be customized with stamps or stains for a stylish look.
• Pavers: Come in various colors, shapes, and patterns for a more decorative appearance.
• Natural Stone: Offers a timeless, organic feel.

A stone patio or deck creates a perfect spot for outdoor dining, lounging, or entertaining while cutting down on maintenance.

B. Create Pathways and Walkways

Grass-heavy yards can be transformed with the addition of paths and walkways. These features add structure and functionality to your yard while reducing the size of grassy areas.

Popular materials for pathways include:

• Gravel: Affordable and easy to install, perfect for informal gardens.
• Stepping Stones: Create a natural look and are easy to customize.
• Brick or Pavers: Provide a polished, classic appearance.

Pathways are especially useful for connecting different parts of your yard, such as a garden area, patio, or fire pit, while breaking up expanses of grass.

C. Incorporate Rock Gardens

Rock gardens are a beautiful way to replace grass while adding texture and interest to your landscape. These areas typically feature decorative stones, boulders, and drought-tolerant plants like succulents or ornamental grasses.

Benefits of rock gardens include:

• Minimal watering and upkeep.
• Resistance to erosion.
• A natural and calming aesthetic.

Rock gardens work well for sloped areas or spots where grass struggles to grow.

D. Install Gravel or Mulched Areas

Gravel and mulch are excellent grass alternatives for both decorative and practical purposes. Use these materials to create low-maintenance zones around trees, shrubs, or garden beds.

• Gravel: Ideal for driveways, seating areas, or as a base layer for fire pits.
• Mulch: Helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and improve the visual appeal of garden beds.

These materials are easy to maintain and can be refreshed periodically to keep your yard looking tidy.

E. Add a Fire Pit or Outdoor Living Area

Transform part of your lawn into a cozy outdoor retreat by incorporating a fire pit or seating area. Surround the fire pit with gravel, stone, or pavers to eliminate grass in that section.

Enhance the space with:

• Built-in benches or chairs made from stone or wood.
• Decorative lighting for nighttime use.
• A pergola or shade structure for added comfort.

This not only reduces lawn maintenance but also creates a gathering spot for family and friends.

F. Use Retaining Walls or Terraces for Sloped Yards

If you have a sloped yard, maintaining grass can be especially challenging. Retaining walls and terraces can replace grass while adding depth and functionality to your landscape.

• Use stone or brick walls to create flat planting areas for low-maintenance plants.
• Add steps or pathways between terraces for easy access.
• Incorporate ground covers or gravel to fill spaces between walls.

This approach prevents soil erosion and reduces mowing on steep inclines.

G. Include Water Features

A water feature like a small pond, fountain, or birdbath can replace a section of grass while adding a relaxing, tranquil vibe to your yard. Surround the feature with stones, gravel, or mulch to reduce maintenance further.

Modern water features often come with energy-efficient pumps and are designed for minimal upkeep, making them a great addition to low-maintenance landscaping.

H. Add Outdoor Art and Decor

Replace grass with artistic elements to create visual interest and personality. For example:

• Sculptures or statues as focal points.
• Decorative pots or containers for plants.
• Pebble mosaics or patterned gravel areas for creative flair.

These features require no watering, mowing, or trimming and can elevate your yard’s overall look.

Benefits of Hardscaping Over Grass

• Water Conservation: Hardscaped areas don’t require watering, saving you money and resources.
• Low Maintenance: No mowing, fertilizing, or reseeding is needed.
• Durability: Hardscaping materials are long-lasting and weather-resistant.
• Improved Usability: Features like patios and fire pits create functional outdoor living spaces.

4. Go for Low-Maintenance Landscaping Around the House

The area immediately surrounding your house plays a vital role in your home’s curb appeal and functionality. However, keeping these spaces tidy and beautiful can often require a lot of effort. Opting for low-maintenance landscaping around the house ensures that your foundation plantings, borders, and pathways remain attractive without the constant upkeep. Here’s how you can make the spaces around your home both practical and beautiful while saving time and energy.

i). Choose Foundation Plants That Stay Neat

Foundation plantings—plants placed around the base of your home—should be low-maintenance and easy to care for. These plants provide a polished look to the perimeter of your house and can soften the transition between the home’s structure and the yard.

Here are some ideal low-maintenance foundation plants:

• Boxwoods: These evergreen shrubs require minimal pruning to maintain their shape and provide year-round greenery.
• Hydrangeas: Flowering shrubs that bloom seasonally but require little care beyond occasional pruning.
• Hostas: Perfect for shaded areas and offer lush foliage with minimal upkeep.
• Yews: Hardy evergreens that can tolerate varying soil and light conditions.

Opt for plants that are slow-growing to avoid frequent pruning and that thrive in your local climate. Every yard will require some level of care, but by choosing plants suited to your region and comfort level, you’ll minimize effort and maximize results. The key is to design a landscape that works for your lifestyle—something you can easily maintain without constant upkeep. This way, your foundation plantings will look polished and inviting, leaving you more time to relax and enjoy your beautiful, low-maintenance yard.

ii). Install Ground Covers Around the House

Grass can be difficult to maintain near the foundation due to poor drainage, shading, and awkward mowing angles. Replace grass with low-maintenance ground covers that require little care but still offer a lush, finished look.

Some excellent options include:

• Creeping Thyme: A drought-tolerant ground cover that adds greenery and a pleasant aroma.
• Liriope (Monkey Grass): Hardy and ideal for edging pathways or filling tricky areas.
• Creeping Phlox: Provides vibrant seasonal blooms and works well in sunny areas.
• Ajuga (Carpet Bugleweed): Great for shaded areas with dense, colorful foliage.

Ground covers not only reduce mowing and watering but also help prevent soil erosion near your foundation.

iii). Use Mulch to Simplify Maintenance

Mulch is a powerful tool for creating low-maintenance landscaping around the house. Spread mulch around plants, shrubs, and trees to:

• Suppress weed growth.
• Retain soil moisture.
• Reduce the need for frequent watering.

Organic mulch, such as bark chips or pine needles, is an excellent choice as it breaks down over time and enriches the soil. Use decorative rocks or gravel as a mulch alternative for a more polished, long-lasting look.

Consider Gravel and River Rocks for Effortless Upkeep

A gravel or river rock garden is another effective way to cut down on yard work. Unlike traditional lawns, gravel doesn’t need fertilizer, watering, or worry about sun exposure. Especially popular in the Southwest and southern regions, gravel offers an inexpensive, low-maintenance option for garden beds, walkways, or pathways between the front and backyard.

While gravel can occasionally require tidying to remove fallen leaves or debris, it generally demands far less time and money than grass. Just keep in mind that gravel may look more natural in some neighborhoods than others, so consider the overall curb appeal for your area. For driveways or paths, though, it’s hard to beat the simplicity and durability of gravel or river rock.

iv). Design Clean and Functional Edging

Well-defined edges around your house not only look neat but also make maintenance much easier. Use materials like:

• Concrete curbing: Long-lasting and keeps mulch or gravel in place.
• Metal or plastic edging: Flexible and easy to install.
• Stone borders: Adds a natural look while preventing soil or mulch from spilling onto pathways.

Edging helps create clear boundaries, reducing the spread of grass or weeds and making mowing or trimming simpler.

v). Add Low-Maintenance Walkways

Walkways around your house enhance accessibility and keep foot traffic off your lawn or flowerbeds. They also cut down on grass or plant areas that require care.

If you notice bare spots in your lawn from repeated use, that’s a sign of a natural path—so why not make it official? Replacing those well-trodden routes with a walkway not only tidies up your yard, but can also save you time and effort in ongoing maintenance.

Materials for low-maintenance walkways include:

• Gravel: Affordable and easy to install, perfect for informal pathways and ideal if you’re looking for a solution that doesn’t break the bank.
• Pavers or Bricks: Durable and available in various patterns for a polished look.
• Stamped Concrete: Offers a custom look with minimal upkeep.
• Mulch: An inexpensive, natural option that blends seamlessly with planting beds.

Walkways should slope slightly away from the house to prevent water from pooling near the foundation. By identifying the most-used routes through your yard and upgrading them with simple, low-maintenance materials, you’ll create attractive paths that reduce wear and tear on your lawn—making your landscape both more functional and easier to manage.

vi). Select Drought-Tolerant and Pest-Resistant Plants

The plants closest to your house should be hardy, requiring minimal watering and care. Drought-tolerant plants are especially useful if downspouts or gutters prevent consistent watering near the foundation.

Some pest-resistant and low-maintenance options include:

• Lavender: Fragrant and repels pests like mosquitoes.
• Sedum: A drought-tolerant succulent that thrives in sunny spots.
• Marigolds: Bright flowers that deter many common pests.
• Juniper: An evergreen shrub that requires little water and is resistant to pests.

These plants will thrive with minimal attention, keeping your yard attractive year-round.

vii). Use Containers for Flexibility

If you prefer seasonal changes or want pops of color, consider using container plants around your house. Containers are:

• Easy to rearrange.
• Ideal for annuals or plants that might not thrive in your soil.
• A great way to control plant growth in small spaces.

Choose durable, weather-resistant pots and fill them with hardy plants like succulents, ferns, or small ornamental grasses for a no-fuss option.

viii). Avoid Overplanting

One common mistake in landscaping around the house is overplanting, which can lead to overcrowding and high maintenance. Instead:

• Choose plants with a mature size that fits the space.
• Space plants appropriately to reduce pruning and ensure good air circulation.
• Use fewer plant varieties for a clean, cohesive look.

Simpler designs are easier to maintain and often more visually appealing.

ix). Ensure Proper Drainage Around the Foundation

Poor drainage near your house can lead to water damage and make maintenance more difficult. Incorporate landscaping solutions that enhance drainage, such as:

• Installing gravel beds near the foundation.
• Creating slight slopes away from the house.
• Using downspout extenders to direct water away from planting areas.

These steps help protect your home while keeping the surrounding landscaping healthy.

x). Light Up the Area for Practicality and Aesthetics

Low-maintenance landscaping isn’t just about plants. Adding outdoor lighting around your house enhances safety, usability, and curb appeal. Use solar-powered or LED lights to reduce energy costs and avoid frequent bulb replacements.

Place lights along pathways, near entryways, or under shrubs to highlight the landscaping while maintaining a low-maintenance design.

5. Simplify Front Yard Landscaping

First impressions matter, but that doesn’t mean your front yard has to be a headache. For low-maintenance landscaping ideas for the front of the house, consider these tips:

• Create a focal point with a decorative tree or large shrub.
• Add flowering shrubs like hydrangeas for seasonal interest.
• Line walkways with hardy, low-growing plants like dwarf ornamental grasses.
• Use containers for easy-to-maintain pops of color.

6. Install Automated Irrigation Systems

Watering can be one of the most time-consuming tasks. An automated irrigation system, like drip irrigation, ensures your plants get the right amount of water without effort. This is particularly helpful for low-maintenance landscaping in larger backyards or areas with varying plant types.

7. Embrace Artificial Grass or Ground Covers

If you love the look of a green lawn but hate the upkeep, artificial grass is an excellent option. Today’s artificial turf looks realistic and requires zero mowing or watering. Over the past several decades, artificial turf has evolved significantly, now offering a lush, natural appearance that can easily fool the eye. With a wide variety of beautiful options available, you can enjoy a vibrant, maintenance-free lawn year-round—no sprinkler system or weekend yard work required. Artificial turf bridges the gap between the low-maintenance appeal of inorganic ground covers and the inviting look of real grass, making it a smart choice for stress-free curb appeal.

8. Stick to a Simple Color Palette

A cluttered mix of plant colors and textures can look overwhelming and require extra care to keep balanced. Stick to a simple color scheme with two to three main hues to maintain a cohesive and easy-to-manage landscape.

Final Thoughts: Achieving Effortless Beauty

Creating low-maintenance landscaping for your home doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty or style. With the right plants, materials, and design elements, you can enjoy a gorgeous yard that practically takes care of itself. From backyard low-maintenance landscaping ideas to solutions for the front of the house, these strategies will save you time while enhancing your home’s curb appeal.

Ready to transform your yard? Start small by swapping out high-maintenance plants for hardy options or adding a layer of mulch. Before you know it, your dream low-maintenance landscape will become a reality.

Looking for a house plan with a well-thought out landscaping for the proposed site? Contact Us today for a consultation.