Lawn Alternatives

Kikuyu and Couch are vigorous lawns that can handle high traffic but are not necessarily suitable around trees and more shaded areas of the garden. Instead of lawn, look for lawn alternatives to bring a change of pace, texture and aesthetic to the garden.

Herbal lawns

Herbal lawns are perfect for areas of low traffic or around stepping stones. They not only provide herbs for the kitchen, but also a subtle fragrance when brushed.

Chamomile 

Chamomile makes a wonderful lawn once allowed to establish. Start in trays and punnets and transplant to help it establish without weed competition. Once established, it will outcompete, and provide a soft fluffy appearance when not in flower. Perfect in orchards and around your clothesline.

Lawn Thyme 

Other popular herbal lawns for low traffic areas include lawn thyme (which is also attractive to bees and beneficial insects) and in the damp shade, you can’t go past the highly fragrant Penny Royal which releases a minty aroma when the leaves are crushed.

Lawn Daisy

A popular addition to our sweeping lawn at Heronswood is the lawn daisy which makes a stunning display of cheerful white flowers under our magnificent Ash from spring to summer. Believe it or not, this English Daisy thrives in our lawns despite the vicious lawn mower cutting off its flowers in spring. In fact - that's how it re- sows! Perfect for sowing in autumn to flower the following spring and summer. 

Dichondra 

Dichondra is another popular lawn alternative for areas with low traffic. A low-maintenance groundcover that rarely grows to lawn mowing height, the verdant foliage makes a statement in full sun or part shade needing just a small amount of irrigation during dry periods or long hot days.  

Baby Sun Rose 

Other groundcover can also be used in tough sites like Baby Sun Rose which tolerates dry conditions, sun or shade and also helps to stabilise steep slopes and the soil under mature trees.