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Trendey • Outdoor Space • Landscaping and Garden • 11 Low Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Your Yard

11 Low Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Your Yard

11 Low Maintenance Landscaping Ideas for Your Yard

  • by — Kari Apted
  • Published on May 21, 2021

  • Updated on January 24, 2025

“A gardener’s recipe: One part soil, two parts water, three parts wishful thinking.”

If you love a beautiful landscape but your thumbs are less than green, low maintenance landscaping may be for you. Many novice gardeners are surprised to learn how many low maintenance options exist for those lacking the time or the skill for complicated gardening.

Low maintenance landscaping ideas will vary depending on where you live. Certain low maintenance landscaping ideas, such as xeriscaping, can be tweaked to work in any climate. Scroll through our low maintenance landscaping gallery and start dreaming again of creating your ideal garden.

1. Backyard Oasis: Low Maintenance Designs

The best way to create a low maintenance backyard is to convert as much of it as possible into outdoor living spaces.

A large stone patio means you’ll spend less time mowing grass and more time relaxing. Instead of maintaining a flower bed, keep a large shade tree as the backyard focal point. Build a deck around it and add a few low maintenance potted plants.

Cozy backyard with wooden deck, wicker furniture, green lawn, flowerbeds, and tall plants against a wooden fence
Source: @earthandsole via Instagram
Backyard with low-maintenance landscaping featuring stepping stone pathway, vibrant flower beds, and a cozy wooden deck
Source: @greenjaylandscaping via Instagram
Low-maintenance backyard landscaping with mulched tree beds, lush greenery, and vibrant pink flowers in terracotta pots
Source: @jael.prothro via Instagram
Modern low-maintenance backyard with artificial turf, wooden privacy fence, accent lighting, and large mature trees
Source: @kerenabu.mecontracting via Instagram
Vibrant backyard with mulched garden beds, decorative trees, lush lawn, and a bright blue lounge chair with a patterned pillow
Source: @louasisliving via Instagram
Low-maintenance backyard with vibrant orange flowers in beige pots, white pebble edging, and a neatly trimmed green lawn
Source: @mrs.caragay via Instagram

Surround your patio or paving stones with mulch instead of planting grass. Mulch is delightfully low maintenance, especially if you spread it over a good quality weed barrier material.

It’s an inexpensive way to cover a lot of ground and usually only needs replacing each spring. Rubber mulch can look as attractive as the real thing but won’t break down like wood mulch.

2. Creative Corner Landscaping Solutions

The corners of your yard are great places to cut down on landscape maintenance by planting evergreens. These often slow growing plants stay green year-round and add beautiful texture to your garden.

Evergreen plant hues vary from pale green to silvery blue, making them an excellent way to add color variety to the yard without increasing your workload.

Front yard landscaping with colorful flowers, purple foliage plants, trimmed shrubs, and a stone border along a brick house
Source: @creativelandscapingnirrigation via Instagram
Elegant low-maintenance corner landscaping with white and black gravel, a water feature, trimmed shrubs, and a decorative palm tree
Source: @creativelandscapingnirrigation via Instagram
Modern backyard with a wooden deck, glass fence, neatly trimmed lawn, tiled patio area, and minimal landscaping for a clean look
Source: @shawlandscapegroup via Instagram
Cozy backyard fire pit area with a wooden seating bench, gravel base, lush greenery, and modern privacy fencing
Source: @smartchoicelandscapesandpools via Instagram
Bright backyard with artificial turf, a white picket fence, rock landscaping, potted plants, and a red umbrella for shade
Source: @smartchoicelandscapesandpools via Instagram
Modern backyard with wooden privacy fence, uplighting on plants, lush lawn, and sleek perimeter LED lighting for evening ambiance
Source: @wilshereinterior via Instagram

Clumping monkey grass does well wrapped around corners and along borders. It is hardy and grows well in most climates and soil types.

Design a low maintenance but high curb appeal corner on each side of your front steps by laying a curved line of brick pavers. Fill it with crushed stone, monkey grass and dwarf evergreen shrubs.

3. Effortless Country Style Landscaping

Country dwellers with large acreage may wonder how to cut down on mowing, watering, and other time-consuming landscaping tasks.

By converting more areas into low maintenance landscaping zones, even rural homeowners can reclaim more hours of relaxation each weekend.

Stylish courtyard with vertical garden, built-in wooden seating, ambient lighting, artificial turf, and cozy decor accents
Source: @wilshereinterior via Instagram
Tranquil backyard with a lush green lawn, wildflowers along a forest edge, and soft sunlight streaming through the trees
Source: @aubynlandscapes via Instagram
Charming countryside garden with red maple trees, neatly trimmed shrubs, gravel edging, and a white fence lining a rural road
Source: @aubynlandscapes via Instagram
Rustic backyard with stone pathways, natural boulders, colorful flower beds, and a terraced design surrounded by mature trees
Source: @greenjaylandscaping via Instagram

Plant creeping groundcover on sloped areas of your property, and don’t be in a rush to clear wooded areas. Be generous with the amount of land you allot for a patio or a deck, as hardscaping equals less grass to maintain.

If your country home doesn’t feel like home without flowers, opt for carefree perennials such as penstemon or brilliant blue-violet pasque flower.

4. DIY Low Maintenance Garden Projects

If you want to DIY a hassle-free garden, start by learning which low maintenance landscaping plants thrive in your area. A few minutes on a search engine will provide you with dozens of ideas to DIY a low maintenance garden guaranteed to grow in your yard.

Simple backyard with wooden fencing, a small garden bed with topiary trees and flowers, and a wooden shed on a lush green lawn
Source: @bexx_home via Instagram
Charming front yard with decorative gravel designs, small topiary shrubs, a weeping tree, black garden edging, and brick-paved paths
Source: @iamyannyreyes via Instagram
Simple side yard landscaping with a wooden raised garden bed, small shrubs, black mulch, and a wooden privacy fence
Source: @oldfortfarmhouse via Instagram

Advancements in artificial grass production have resulted in a product that looks and feels more like real grass than ever. Although it is an expensive carefree landscaping idea—around $10 per square foot—just think of all the time you’ll save on mowing the grass!

5. Desert Landscaping

A desert landscape with native plant selections might be the original low maintenance landscape. Desert plants are well adapted to their environment and have minimal watering requirements. While there are still desert gardens that include grass, more and more people are choosing natural xeriscape garden options.

Modern front yard with tiered sandstone retaining walls, drought-tolerant plants, and a stylish brick home in the background
Source: @everlastlandscapes via Instagram
Desert-inspired backyard with wooden privacy fence, drought-tolerant plants, red rock mulch, and a curved concrete pathway
Source: @richard_party_of_10 via Instagram
Modern backyard with artificial grass, white gravel accents, minimalist planters, and wooden fencing with ambient lighting
Source: @rochelles_canterbury via Instagram
Cozy backyard with slate gravel, wooden planters, vibrant hydrangeas, ambient lighting, and a wooden deck with a serene Buddha statue
Source: @sampearsongardenprojects via Instagram
Rustic courtyard with brick walls, hanging string lights, gravel flooring, potted plants, and an outdoor counter for decor
Source: @scandichomeseriemas via Instagram

Succulents, including cacti, come in a dizzying array of shapes, sizes and colors. In the proper desert climate, all you need is a variety of succulents and crushed rock mulch to create a colorful, low maintenance yard.

6. Front Yard Beauty with Minimal Upkeep

A beautiful landscape doesn’t have to be complicated. A tidy front yard may consist of a shade tree or two and some shrub clusters surrounded by mulch.

You’ll need to rake leaves in the fall, and trim shrubs occasionally, but the mulch will cut down on weeds and watering. Organic mulch also adds a nice woody fragrance to your yard.

Front yard with a raised brick planter, neatly trimmed shrubs, a small tree, decorative white and black gravel, and lush green lawn
Source: @cantellano_inc via Instagram
Elegant front yard walkway with diamond-patterned pavers, bordered by mulch, neatly trimmed shrubs, and a well-maintained lawn
Source: @chaseslandscapeservices via Instagram
Beautiful front yard featuring a curved paver walkway bordered by vibrant mulch, decorative stones, and a variety of manicured shrubs and plants
Source: @creativedesignandmaintenance via Instagram
Vibrant front yard design featuring neatly trimmed shrubs, colorful flowers, and a lush green lawn framing a welcoming walkway leading to the front entrance
Source: @jennxt via Instagram
Charming front yard landscaping featuring a variety of colorful flowers, neatly arranged shrubs, and a well-maintained lawn complementing the modern stone façade of the home
Source: @samgrowsfoodandflowers via Instagram
Cozy front yard landscaping with a raised flower bed, vibrant blooms, and a charming porch featuring black railing and decorative hanging baskets
Source: @truenorthenterprises via Instagram
Charming front yard design with vibrant hydrangeas, colorful perennial flowers, and neatly trimmed shrubs, creating a cozy and inviting look
Source: @truenorthenterprises via Instagram
Elegant front yard landscaping with a sculpted tree on a stone pedestal, black mulch, decorative plants, and a neat border design
Source: @truenorthenterprises via Instagram
Vibrant front yard garden with hydrangeas, colorful flowers, ornamental grasses, and neatly trimmed shrubs bordering a stone house
Source: @waisgarden via Instagram
Front yard with a low-maintenance rock garden featuring evergreen trees, shrubs, decorative stones, and a paved walkway near a white house
Source: @waisgarden via Instagram
Front yard with a vibrant garden featuring a Japanese maple, potted flowers, mulch, a stone border, and a decorative paved walkway
Source: @creativedesignandmaintenance via Instagram

If you decide you need a burst of color in the front yard, plant lavender. These durable perennial plants return year after year and spread over time. Unlike many flowering plants, lavender only needs watering once or twice a week, and their strong fragrance is a pleasant natural bug repellant.

Read more: Landscaping Ideas for The Front of the House

7. Large Area Landscaping with Less Work

Whether your yard is large, average, or small, the same tips apply if you wish to have a low maintenance garden experience. Add a firepit with seating, a large deck, and a gazebo to add more living space and less plant space in a large yard.

Modern low-maintenance backyard featuring raised planters with neatly trimmed shrubs, a tree centerpiece, and a greenhouse in the background, perfect for a structured yet inviting landscape
Source: @adapt_landscapes via Instagram
Spacious low-maintenance garden featuring a lush green lawn bordered by neatly trimmed hedges and a colorful mix of perennial flowers and foliage, ideal for a serene outdoor retreat
Source: @trincanodedo via Instagram
Expansive low-maintenance landscape design featuring a checkerboard pattern of grass and stone tiles, paired with trimmed hedges, a pergola seating area, and lush greenery for a balanced and elegant outdoor space
Source: @vernichinteriors via Instagram

If you just can’t live without annuals and perennials that require frequent watering, you can use a drip irrigation system to help them thrive without direct assistance. A sprinkler system can make lawn maintenance easier, especially if you have a large grass yard.

8. Modern Minimalist Garden Ideas

Low maintenance landscaping can be ideal surrounding a modern home, where less is always more. A rock garden in many shades of grey is a modern welcoming touch, especially when accented with a gazing ball or modern-designed fountain or sculpture.

Modern low-maintenance landscaping design featuring smooth concrete spheres on a bed of white pebbles, clean stepping stone pathways, and a blend of mulch, greenery, and natural stone accents for an elegant and structured aesthetic
Source: @boland_garden_solutions via Instagram
Expansive modern landscape featuring a vibrant green lawn framed by neatly trimmed hedges, stepping stones surrounded by lush ground cover, and a mix of colorful flowers and trees. Brick borders add structure and elegance, complementing the tranquil garden setting.
Source: @costachristmedia via Instagram
Stylish backyard design with clean lines, featuring a combination of gravel, neatly arranged greenery, and slate tiles. A cozy wooden seating area under a tree is complemented by a dark-stained fence that provides privacy and a contemporary touch.
Source: @earthandsole via Instagram
Elegant centerpiece garden design featuring a raised urn filled with vibrant purple petunias, surrounded by lush green boxwood shrubs and seasonal flowers. A natural stone border adds structure, while flowering vines above create a charming canopy effect.
Source: @gardencat2020 via Instagram
Modern outdoor oasis featuring a sleek wooden pergola with slatted walls, offering a cozy seating area complete with gray cushions and decorative pillows. Surrounding planters with bright blooms and greenery complement the minimalist design, while a trio of manicured boxwoods sits elegantly in a white gravel bed for a touch of sophistication.
Source: @inside_no_8 via Instagram
Stunning modern home exterior with a vibrant and low-maintenance landscape. A curved walkway lined with colorful flowers, including bright pink and purple petunias, leads to the welcoming entrance. Towering evergreens and neatly trimmed shrubs add structure, while the sunset sky completes the serene ambiance.
Source: @oklahliving via Instagram

Oversized square concrete pavers follow the simple lines and angles of modern architecture. Create paths with them across your backyard, connecting the patio and other living areas. Simple trees, unfussy hedges, and crushed rock borders in black or white come together in an impressive contemporary garden.

9. Rock Landscaping for Easy Care

Natural stone is an ideal material for a low maintenance landscaping. Not only is it attractive year round, rock never needs replacing. You may have to pull the occasional weed out of a crushed stone garden bed but using a strong weed barrier beneath the gravel keeps that task to a minimum.

Vibrant landscaping with a mix of bold red and yellow foliage, accented by lush green shrubs and a backdrop of evergreens. Natural rock formations enhance the design, creating a striking yet low-maintenance garden that's perfect for any outdoor space.
Source: @a_service_for_every_season via Instagram
Elegant flower bed lined with natural stone, featuring vibrant magenta and white blooms cascading along a curved pathway. Mature trees and lush greenery create a balanced, low-maintenance landscape with a timeless appeal.
Source: @dibarkerinteriors via Instagram
Charming garden retreat featuring a cozy bistro set on a stone patio, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flowers. A dry creek bed adds a natural touch, while wooden trellises create a private and tranquil ambiance, perfect for relaxation.
Source: @landscape_josh via Instagram
Elevated outdoor patio with rustic stonework, surrounded by lush plants and natural boulders. The seating area offers a cozy space for dining or entertaining, framed by serene wooded views for a tranquil backyard experience.
Source: @landscapecreationsdupage via Instagram
Tiered garden layout with stepping stones leading to a circular patio. Minimalist design features rusted steel edging, native plants, and a mix of gravel and turf for a low-maintenance, modern backyard look.
Source: @locolandscapedesign via Instagram
Rustic garden featuring stone walls and raised beds planted with herbs and small trees. Gravel paths are lined with lanterns for evening ambiance, and a central decorative feature adds character to this charming, low-maintenance outdoor space.
Source: @lori_laing via Instagram
Desert-inspired landscape with gravel ground cover and a central succulent surrounded by a ring of smooth rocks. Drought-tolerant plants and natural boulders create a serene, low-maintenance yard ideal for arid climates.
Source: @riogracellc via Instagram

Consider a rock garden to add dimension to a dull or flat area of the yard. Although you can add some ornamental grass or low maintenance plants, the easiest rock gardens are made from only hardscape materials.

Vary rock colors, textures, and sizes for visual interest. Surround paving stones with pebbles and outline different areas of the garden with river stones in complementary colors.

10. Shady Retreats: Simple Landscaping Tips

Shady garden zones don’t have to remain barren to qualify as low maintenance. Climbing ivy is a great plant to use in a shady, low maintenance garden. Plant ivy along a dividing wall or long fence to create a living barrier that will not require much attention from you. Mix variegated and solid color varieties to make it interesting.

Modern backyard with wooden planters, green hedge, and concrete stairs leading to a house
Source: @riogracellc via Instagram
Lush garden with stone path leading to a wooden patio and stairs, surrounded by green plants and trees
Source: @earthandsole via Instagram
Curved garden bed with plants and mulch next to a white house, bordered by light stone edging
Source: @kreatyve.gardenista via Instagram

Many evergreen varieties thrive in shady garden areas, including hemlock, boxwood, holly, yew, and nandina.

Many of these come in full size and dwarf size varieties, allowing you to add a variety of heights and textures to the shady parts of your yard. Plant shade-loving, lower maintenance perennials such as spiderwort, viola, astilbe, and hosta.

11. Simplifying Garden Design for Easy Care

You may feel that roses and other flowering plant varieties are out of reach if you need a lower maintenance garden. However, there are types that require less care than others. For example, Knock-Out roses are known for their ability to bloom with little attention. Their simple beauty can launch a garden from basic to beautiful.

A backyard pool with a white chair beside it, surrounded by grass and a glass fence
Source: @cascadelandscapes via Instagram
Stone pathway beside hedges, leading to a brick house entrance
Source: @chaseslandscapeservices via Instagram
Fire pit on a tiled area with small trees along a wooden fence in a backyard
Source: @chris_refined via Instagram
House with grey siding and stone landscaping, front yard garden with shrubs and small trees
Source: @creativedesignandmaintenance via Instagram
Garden scene with tiered flower beds, vibrant flowers, greenery, and a wooden deck in the foreground
Source: @londongardendesign via Instagram
Stone path winding through a lush garden with colorful flowers, greenery, and a wooden trellis in a suburban backyard setting
Source: @mapleridgelandscapes via Instagram
A landscaped yard features palm trees, neatly trimmed bushes, and colorful plants along a paved driveway in front of a house
Source: @miamiexclusiveborders via Instagram
A small backyard with a curved lawn, surrounded by gravel and a few plants, adjacent to a block wall and a house
Source: @miamiexclusiveborders via Instagram
A colorful garden with pink and red flowers lines a pathway, leading to a porch with potted plants
Source: @smallhomegarden via Instagram
Curved brick patio with tiered garden beds, stone steps, and large potted plants
Source: @the_brickdoctor via Instagram

Keep your garden simple by only choosing plants that do well in your USDA hardiness zone. Replace grass with no-effort ground covers like moss and low-growing clover. You’ll still enjoy a blanket of green in the yard, but you won’t have to mow it, ever.

FAQs

What are the seven principles of xeriscaping?

Xeriscaping is a type of low maintenance landscaping that requires little or no irrigation. Its seven principles are:

  1. Intentional planning/design
  2. Turf or lawn limitation
  3. Drought tolerant plants
  4. Effective irrigation
  5. Soil amendments
  6. Mulching 
  7. Proper maintenance

What can I use instead of grass in my backyard?

If you don’t want grass, but still desire a green backyard, plant an herb garden or a ground cover such as ivy or creeping thyme. Artificial grass may also be an option. Plant-free low maintenance lawn replacements include a large deck or patio, or an expanse of rubber mulch.

Kari Apted

Writer

Kari Apted is an Atlanta-based freelance writer who has been educating and entertaining readers for over 15 years.

Kari Apted is an Atlanta-based freelance writer who has been educating and entertaining readers for over 15 years.

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