Ideas For Problematic Lawns
By J. A. Young
Photo: © Melanie Deer-neff - dreamstime.com
Steep terrain, shady patches or low spots are areas that cause problems for traditional lawns. While grass can be a hardy grower—often sprouting up where you do not want it, when it grows in these problem areas it can have a shoddy appearance that is far from the lush effect you want from a lawn.
Shady areas frequently see poor growth from the lawn. This is because most lawns require at least six hours of sunlight to thrive. |
If your landscape has some low spots where water collects, look for plants that prefer the damp where their roots will stay moist. It may be necessary to drain the area first and then fill it with topsoil, but it probably will not adequately support a traditional lawn and water-loving plants will do much better in such an area.
As for steep terrain, not only can grass be difficult to grow here, it may be near impossible to maintain. While this type of terrain has posed many a headache for gardeners, it can become a dramatic focal point when planted with the likes of lilac creeping phlox. A ground cover is essential for withstanding erosion. Be sure to consider terracing your steep or installing a rock garden there.
Ornamental grasses can turn a difficult area into a favorite spot without detracting from your traditional lawn. They also provide great contrasts and solid visual appeal, which gives a landscape attractive variety and signs of overall good health. Because there is such a wide variety of ornamental grasses and ground cover to choose from, research first to narrow down your selection to those likely to thrive in your "problem spot." |
