How do you create a low-maintenance front yard with native plants?

1 Plan your design

Before you start planting, you need to plan your design. Consider the size, shape, and orientation of your front yard, and how you want to use it. Do you want a walkway, a seating area, a focal point, or a mix of elements? Sketch out your ideas on paper or use a landscape design software. Think about the colors, textures, and heights of the plants you want to use, and how they will complement each other and your house.

2 Choose your plants

The next step is to choose your plants. Look for native plants that are suited to your region and your site conditions. For example, if you have a sunny and dry front yard, you might want to use drought-tolerant plants like succulents, grasses, or wildflowers. If you have a shady and moist front yard, you might want to use ferns, mosses, or woodland plants. You can find native plants at your local nursery, online, or from a native plant society. Try to use a variety of plants that bloom in different seasons, provide food and shelter for wildlife, and require minimal care.

3 Prepare your soil

Before you plant your native plants, you need to prepare your soil. Depending on the quality of your soil, you might need to amend it with organic matter, such as compost or mulch, to improve its drainage, fertility, and structure. You might also need to remove any weeds, grass, or unwanted plants that might compete with your native plants. You can use a shovel, a hoe, or a weed barrier fabric to clear the area. Alternatively, you can use a method called sheet mulching, which involves laying down layers of cardboard, newspaper, or organic material over the existing vegetation and letting it decompose over time.

4 Plant your plants

Now you are ready to plant your plants. Follow the instructions on the plant labels or the design plan for the spacing, depth, and arrangement of your plants. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of your plant, and gently loosen the roots before placing it in the hole. Fill the hole with soil and press it firmly around the plant. Water the plant thoroughly and add a layer of mulch around it to conserve moisture and prevent weeds. Repeat the process for the rest of your plants.

5 Water and maintain your plants

The last step is to water and maintain your plants. Native plants usually need less water than non-native plants, but they still need some water to establish themselves in the first year or two. Water your plants deeply and infrequently, depending on the weather and the soil moisture. Check the soil with your finger before watering, and avoid overwatering or underwatering your plants. You can also use a drip irrigation system or a rain barrel to save water and reduce runoff. To maintain your plants, you might need to prune, deadhead, or divide them occasionally to keep them healthy and tidy. You might also need to weed, mulch, or fertilize your plants as needed.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?