Turf Alternatives – Ground Covers and Xeriscaping Blends
Turf Alternatives – Ground Covers and Xeriscaping Blends
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You Don’t Have to Choose Grass or Gravel
Tired of watering, mowing, and patching traditional sod? You’re not alone. But full rock beds aren’t the only option either. Colorado homeowners are increasingly choosing low-maintenance turf alternatives that provide texture, color, and walkability — with a fraction of the upkeep. Here’s what works best in our region.
1. Creeping Ground Covers
1. Creeping Ground Covers
These are ideal for smaller lawn areas, shady spots, or filler between stones.
Creeping Thyme
Drought-tolerant, soft underfoot
Produces small purple flowers in summer
Thrives in sun and part shade
Veronica ‘Georgia Blue’
Deep green with electric blue flowers
Grows low and spreads gently
Needs some water but far less than turf
Clover (Mini or Micro Clover)
Stays green longer than grass
Fixes nitrogen = healthier soil
Self-seeds and fills in bare areas
May not suit every HOA, so check first
2. Native Grass Blends & No-Mow Zones
2. Native Grass Blends & No-Mow Zones
Great for larger areas where turf isn’t practical or needed.
Buffalo Grass (from seed)
Ultra-low water use
Soft texture, mowed or unmowed
Goes dormant in winter but returns strong
Blue Grama + Fescue Mixes
Mimics natural meadows
Grows 6–12", or can be mowed twice/year
Beautiful movement in wind
Fine Fescue No-Mow Mixes
Grows 4–6", doesn’t need mowing
Takes light shade
Excellent for back corners and tree lawns
3. Mixed Xeriscape Planting Zones
3. Mixed Xeriscape Planting Zones
If you don’t want a lawn at all, we design layered xeriscapes with:
Boulders and mulch beds
Native perennials and grasses
Gravel pathways or dry creek beds
Accent ground covers for filler and erosion control
This provides visual texture and year-round color with ultra-low water needs.
4. What to Consider Before Replacing Turf
4. What to Consider Before Replacing Turf
Use case: Do kids or pets need play space?
Slope & erosion: Some covers need stabilizing borders
HOA rules: Some require “green lawn appearance”
Water access: Even drought-tolerant plants need help in year one
Aesthetic goals: Some want lush, some want natural, some want ultra-minimal
We design based on how you want to live in your yard.
5. Pros & Cons vs. Traditional Sod
5. Pros & Cons vs. Traditional Sod
Feature
Water Use: Traditional Sod – High | Turf Alternatives – Low to Moderate
Maintenance: Traditional Sod – Mowing, fertilizing | Turf Alternatives – Little to none
Appearance: Traditional Sod – Uniform green | Turf Alternatives – Textured, natural
Foot Traffic: Traditional Sod – Very good | Turf Alternatives – Varies by plant
Install Cost: Traditional Sod – Low to moderate | Turf Alternatives – Moderate to high initially, lower lifetime cost
Related Services:
Related Services:
Looking to Ditch the Lawn Without Losing Curb Appeal?
Looking to Ditch the Lawn Without Losing Curb Appeal?
We’ll help you choose, design, and install a beautiful turf alternative that fits your life and your landscape.
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