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Lawn grass alternative #868057

Asked May 12, 2024, 9:45 AM EDT

What do you recommend for relatively maintenance free native lawn grass alternatives? I was thinking clover but I’m finding conflicting information about it. Also, whaat would be a good native plant or wildflower choice for a 1 acre shaded area that I don’t use or mow? Thanks!

Pope County Minnesota

Expert Response

Good Morning Chris, 

Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service, 

There are several options for lawn. Here is a link from the U of M Extension Yard and Garden website: https://extension.umn.edu/landscape-design/planting-and-maintaining-bee-lawn

Link to native plants in MN: https://extension.umn.edu/find-plants/native-plants

You might consider contacting the Pope County Soil and Water Conservation District: https://popeswcd.org/  They may have grants for a pollinator area. They will also do a possible site visit and advise you on potential pollinator plants for your acre. 

Here is another link to  fescue lawn (as opposed to Kentucky bluegrass): https://extension.umn.edu/lawns-and-landscapes/planting-and-maintaining-fine-fescue-lawn

Good Luck!

Maureen Graber Replied May 13, 2024, 7:34 AM EDT

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