Knowledgebase
Lawn Replacement ideas for tough location #880527
Asked August 07, 2024, 11:49 AM EDT
Hi,
I would really like some help. I live in the Front Range. I would like to replace my lawn with something that requires almost no water. I've looked at different clovers and other things but I struggle to find something that will work in my situation. So, the goal is to have something green-ish, tollerant to dog urine and low-to-no watering once established. There isn't a lot of foot traffic. The size is roughly 500 sq ft, so I'd like something more or less resemples a lawn or meadow, and not filled with xerascape plants or flowers.
Existing conditions:
1. The PH is very high. Clay soil that doesn't drain well. I augmented it when I planted grass, but that didn't last and the grass died off over time.
2. The heat is extreme. There is no shade and the soil dries out exteremly quickly. (that's why I didn't think clover would last)
As water becomes more of a concern, I'd love to find a lawn replacement that will work in these conditions.
Thank you!!
Derek
Boulder County Colorado
Expert Response
If you live in the front range outside of Boulder County you may wish to contact the Extension in your county for localized information.
There is a grass called Dog Tuff that may be a good option for you. Some thyme like wooly are tough but may not tolerate much dog urine over time. Regardless of what is planted you will need to water it until it is sell established which could be a year or two. The most important preparation step prior to planting any plants will be to amend the top 6 or more inches of compost to increase drainage, soil for rooting and aeration. You may choose to do a soil test as well to get recommendations on how to adjust your pH. CSU offers testing. If you find certain spots burning out or discoloring from dog urine you can water that spot extra well and it will help it recover by diluting the urine.
These have some general tips on establishing and caring for grasses.
https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/agriculture/fertilizing-cool-season-grasses-and-grasslegume-mixtures-0-522/
https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/lawn-care-7-202/
Hi,
I would really like some help. I live in the Front Range. I would like to replace my lawn with something that requires almost no water. I've looked at different clovers and other things but I struggle to find something that will work in my situation. So, the goal is to have something green-ish, tollerant to dog urine and low-to-no watering once established. There isn't a lot of foot traffic. The size is roughly 500 sq ft, so I'd like something more or less resemples a lawn or meadow, and not filled with xerascape plants or flowers.
Existing conditions:
1. The PH is very high. Clay soil that doesn't drain well. I augmented it when I planted grass, but that didn't last and the grass died off over time.
2. The heat is extreme. There is no shade and the soil dries out exteremly quickly. (that's why I didn't think clover would last)
As water becomes more of a concern, I'd love to find a lawn replacement that will work in these conditions.
Thank you!!
Derek
