Are you tired of wrestling with thirsty turf and constant mowing? Then these ground cover alternatives to grass might be exactly what your Sacramento-area yard needs. In a region where water conservation is a top priority, choosing something other than grass can be a real game changer. You might have a sloped corner, a shady patch, or simply an intention to lower your summer water bills. No matter your reason, ground covers and other lawn substitutes offer fresh ways to keep your yard beautiful without the typical mowing, fertilizing, and watering chores. Below, you’ll find a roundup of different solutions, their pros, and how they might fit into your outdoor space.
Before you dive in, remember that many of these choices thrive under specific conditions. Some need full sun, others prefer shade, and a few can handle a bit of foot traffic each day. As you explore these ideas, consider your site’s soil type, sunlight levels, and your maintenance preferences. Ready to cut back on grass and invite easier care? Let’s explore eight solid options.
Consider artificial grass
Artificial grass has come a long way from its plastic-looking roots. Modern turf blends realistic textures with durability, so you get a lawn-style look without the upkeep. Yes, it’s not technically a “ground cover plant,” but it still counts as a popular lawn alternative for homeowners seeking a neat, green space.
- Cost basics: The average installation can run between $12 to $20 per square foot (April 2024 prices), totaling around $6,500 depending on your yard’s size. ( Ergeon Blog )
- Maintenance savings: Expect to spend roughly $250 to $350 per year on upkeep, which is much lower than maintaining a real lawn over time.
- Water usage: You’ll hardly need any water, aside from the occasional rinse to clear debris.
Artificial turf saves a lot of water, which is particularly handy when you’re up against hot Sacramento summers or wanting to comply with drought restrictions. It does, however, require an upfront investment. If you crave the appearance of an evergreen lawn and don’t mind the expense, this could be your ticket to a hassle-free, green yard.
Try low-water ground covers
If you’re looking for living plants that sip less water, there are plenty of drought-tolerant ground cover options. These hardy picks can handle scorching summer days and still stay green and vibrant with minimal irrigation. You’ll see fewer weeds, healthier soil, and often a carpet of flowers to brighten the yard.
- Popular picks: Angelina sedum, hardy ice plant, creeping thyme, and Dutch white clover are all known for thriving in drier conditions. ( Lawn Love )
- Added perks: They can help with erosion control, keep your soil cooler during heat waves, and support pollinators who stop by for a quick snack of nectar or pollen.
- Local fit: The Greater Sacramento area’s hot, dry spells are perfect for these succulent-like or deep-rooted ground covers that hold up well even under sun-scorched afternoons.
If your yard is especially sunny and you want extra ideas, check out our overview of drought-tolerant ground cover for landscaping. You’ll find plenty of hearty ground cover plants that can take the heat and still look lovely.
Use clover for easy care
Clover stands out as one of the most low-maintenance options among ground cover alternatives to grass. Dutch white clover, in particular, is renowned for its nitrogen-fixing skills—meaning it naturally enriches the soil without you adding fertilizer.
- Simple lawn substitute: Clover takes root fast, forms thick mats that crowd out weeds, and adapts well to poorer soils.
- Water needs: Less than typical grass, so you’ll conserve water, too.
- Maintenance style: You can mow it short if you prefer a uniform look, or let it bloom freely in summer for a cottage-garden feel.
Because clover is so adaptable, it handles partial shade nicely. If you worry about those dim corners behind the garage or under the trees, you can also take a look at ground cover plants for shaded areas. In either case, clover is a simple way to keep your lawn green without sinking a ton of time or cash into routine care.
Explore ornamental grasses
For a truly decorative twist, ornamental grasses can provide texture, movement, and subtle color changes with the seasons. While they may not create a dense lawn-like carpet, they can fill large open areas with variety and charm.
- Water usage: Drought-tolerant varieties like blue fescue or feather reed grass require limited watering once established.
- Look and feel: Ornamental grasses come in diverse heights and shades, from wispy green to deep burgundy, so you can mix and match.
- Maintenance: Most ornamental grasses need trimming once a year—usually in late winter or early spring—to encourage fresh growth.
This option is particularly appealing if you want a modern, airy look or if you’re patching up a sloped area prone to erosion. Ornamental grasses can form protective root systems that help anchor soil, plus they offer a striking backdrop for your favorite blooms or succulents.
Go for creeping thyme
Creeping thyme loves full sun, has a compact growth habit, and rewards you with a flush of pretty pink, white, or purple blooms in late spring and early summer. If you brush against it, you’ll catch a mild, herbal aroma—some describe it as oregano-like.
- Spread details: Each plant extends about 6 inches per year, eventually linking into a fragrant carpet. ( Fine Gardening )
- Maintenance tips: Prepare a good 6-inch depth of fast-draining soil, weed aggressively in the first year, and water mainly during drought.
- Foot traffic: Creeping thyme can handle light to moderate footsteps. It’s a great choice around stepping stones or near pathways.
Consider thyme if you want something that’s visually appealing, sweetly scented, and easy on the water bill. Plus, it invites pollinators, so your garden becomes a friendly stopover for bees and butterflies, adding a small but meaningful boost to local ecosystems.
Opt for moss in shady spots
Sometimes, the big challenge is not the sun but the shade. If your yard has deeply shaded pockets, or if you have persistent moisture that other plants resent, moss could be the answer. Moss, with its velvety texture, helps define a peaceful space. It doesn’t need mowing, fertilizing, or much fuss at all.
- Where moss shines: Cool, damp, or shady corners that rarely see direct sunlight. ( Lawn Love )
- Maintenance: Keep stray leaves off its surface, ensure it doesn’t dry out completely, and watch it gradually form a lush green carpet.
- Bonus serenity: Moss naturally lends a calm, almost Zen-garden look. Pair it with stepping stones and water features for maximum charm.
If you still want more plant ideas for shady corners, consider a broader variety of low maintenance ground cover plants for comprehensive solutions. Moss can be a stand-alone statement or part of a bigger landscape plan.
Plant native groundcovers
Going native is a great strategy to keep your yard both vibrant and eco-friendly. Native groundcovers adapt easily to local soil conditions, reduce water consumption, and bring essential food and shelter to wildlife. In the Sacramento region, you’ll find a wide range of adaptable species that can handle seasonal dryness and sometimes even help restore natural habitats.
- Cost benefits: Over 10 years, native groundcovers can save you up to 90% in maintenance costs compared to turf grass. ( Pro Landscapes MD )
- Habitat perks: Native groundcovers support local pollinators and insects, which helps feed birds and other critters.
- Planting tips: Start in spring or fall when the soil is workable and rainfall helps new plants establish roots.
For example, creeping wild thyme or local ferns can quickly blanket areas that typical turf would never survive in. If you’re curious about other species perfect for your microclimate, talk with a local nursery about your yard’s light levels and soil type, or check out broader lists of best ground covers for landscaping.
Look at mulch or decomposed granite
You might be after something simpler than a plant-based solution. In that case, mulch or decomposed granite (DG) can create low-maintenance, weed-suppressing surfaces that still look polished. While these surfaces don’t offer the greenery of living ground covers, they can be a practical alternative for areas you seldom walk through—or for connecting walking paths between planting beds.
- Mulch benefits: Good at smothering weeds, retaining soil moisture, and adding organic matter as it breaks down over time.
- Decomposed granite benefits: A stable, natural stone look that’s perfect for pathways and patios, plus water will seep through easily, which reduces runoff.
- Local usage: In the Sacramento area, DG is a favorite for walkways or xeriscaping. You can pair it with succulents or low-water shrubs for a cohesive, modern vibe.
If you have large stretches of yard you rarely use, spreading mulch or DG can be a quick fix. You may want to outline certain sections with edging materials (rocks, bricks, or pavers) to keep everything neat. Combined with a few drought-tolerant shrubs or ground covers, you’ll end up with an attractive yard that’s easy on your schedule and your water meter.
Quick comparison table
Below is a quick snapshot of how several ground cover alternatives stack up in terms of cost, water usage, foot traffic, and upkeep. Keep in mind that these figures are approximate, so always check with local garden centers or experts for specifics.
| Ground Cover | Approx. Cost (per sq ft or plant) | Water Usage | Foot Traffic | Maintenance Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Artificial grass | $12-$20/sq ft (install) | Very low | High durability | Low (occasional rinsing) |
| Drought-tolerant plants | $2-$6/plant | Low | Low–Medium | Low once established |
| Dutch white clover | $0.25- $0.50/ sq ft (seed) | Less than turf | Light–Moderate | Very low, can be mowed |
| Ornamental grasses | $5-$15/plant | Low–Moderate | Typically low | Cut back yearly |
| Creeping thyme | $3-$6/plant | Low | Light–Moderate | Minimal once established |
| Moss | Varies (sheet or plugs) | Low | Limited | Low (keep moist & clean) |
| Native groundcovers | Varies by species | Low–Moderate | Typically low | Very low after first year |
| Mulch/DG | $3-$6/bag or $25+/cubic yard | None needed | Not designed for foot traffic, but passable | Minimal (weed occasionally) |
Remember, the dollar amounts are ballpark figures. Your actual cost will hinge on local suppliers, yard size, site prep, and whether you install it yourself or hire a professional crew.
Friendly wrap-up
Whether you opt for mossy nooks under mature trees, thyme in the sun, or the clean look of artificial turf, these ground cover alternatives to grass can simplify your life. You’ll save water, reduce mowing duties, and even lend a helping hand to local pollinators. If you want to branch out even further, check out low maintenance ground cover plants for more suggestions. Whichever route you choose, your yard can stay lush, inviting, and easy to care for in every season.
Give one of these options a shot and see how it transforms your landscaping. You may find yourself with more free time, lower water bills, and an outdoor space that feels inviting year-round. After all, a beautiful, low-hassle yard fits perfectly into our warm California climate, and it can make your life a whole lot simpler. Enjoy exploring these fresh ideas, and get ready to watch your lawn area evolve from patchy turf to an eye-catching, practical retreat.