These landscapes can look just as manicured as any other landscape, depending on what the home gardener wants. Native ground covers are a good substitute for grass, Jacob said. These are plants that spread out and cover a lot of ground. Some of them can be mowed occasionally, but most require little maintenance, other than perhaps some annual weeding. Two excellent ground covers to consider are Pigeonberry and Wooly Stemodia.
Homeowners sometimes assume that their neighborhood deed restriction require a lawn-type landscape.
In most cases, just planting inside borders eliminates any problems of perception. Start by planting just a few areas, he suggested. This year, select a 100-square foot section to convert to alternative ground cover, then a few hundred square feet next year, and so on. In a few years there will be little grass to maintain, and summer yard work will be greatly reduced. With these kinds of landscapes, you can do the minimal maintenance in the spring or fall when temperatures are much more enjoyable.