Ground Cover Reccs to Revamp my New Yard - Ask Extension
Hello there!
I recently moved into a new home with a beautiful yard that needs some TLC. I live in the Frogtown neighborhood of Saint Paul. The fol...
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Ground Cover Reccs to Revamp my New Yard #872410
Asked June 10, 2024, 12:07 PM EDT
Hello there!
I recently moved into a new home with a beautiful yard that needs some TLC. I live in the Frogtown neighborhood of Saint Paul. The folks who lived here before had two large dogs, so a lot of the grass & ground cover has died from them tearing it up and from dog poop being left out in the yard for long periods of time.
I would like recommendations for native ground cover that is fairly soft, easily mowable w/ a push mower, helps w/ erosion, and maybe even encourages some detoxification of the soil (due to the dog poop). This area is south-facing & has little to no shade. Something perennial would be ideal, but I'm open to an annual if it fits everything else I'm looking for. The current growth in the yard is a mix of lawn grass, wild clover, large dandelions, and some ground cover I can't identify (I can provide photos, if needed). Please let me know if you need any other information!
Thank you very much for your time and expertise! I hope you have a wonderful day :)
- Milo
Ramsey County Minnesota
Expert Response
The photos lack the detail needed to be sure, but what you refer to as a ground cover you can't identify might be prostrate knotweed. Compare here and see what you think: https://images.app.goo.gl/jMzhPJohLmBRbaTN6
The following publication discusses a range of lawn alternatives that incorporate native plants. Approved turf alternative plans may even be subsidized.
https://bwsr.state.mn.us/l2l
The following publication discusses a range of lawn alternatives that incorporate native plants. Approved turf alternative plans may even be subsidized.
https://bwsr.state.mn.us/l2l