Natural lawn care: Alternatives to grass

Grass is not the best choice for some areas

Leave a buffer of natural vegetation along streams and lakes to filter pollutants and protect fish and wildlife. These buffers should include shrubs and trees to shade the stream, and groundcovers of native plants or low maintenance grasses that are left unmowed and wild. Avoid use of pesticides or soluble fertilizers near streams, ditches, wetlands, or shorelines.

• Learn about Ecoturf (Seattle Public Utilities)
• Learn about Eco-lawns (WSU Coop Extension)

Consider alternatives for problem areas
Grass grows best on well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Steep slopes are hard to mow and water. Call WSU Cooperative Extension (206-296-3900) for information on alternative plants or grasses that do well in shady, steep, or wet sites. Ask for Fact Sheet #68, "Groundcover and lawn substitutions."

• Honey, I shrunk the lawn! (King County Water and Land Resources Division)

Looking for more information?
For more information, call the Garden Hotline at 206-633-0224, or email help@gardenhotline.org .