Want a beautiful yard without spending every weekend maintaining it? You're definitely not alone. Low-maintenance landscaping is perfect for busy homeowners, new gardeners, or anyone who'd rather relax in their yard than work on it. 

Here are some tips for designing a yard that looks great year-round—without the constant upkeep!

Plants that naturally thrive in a region require less work—less water, fertilizer, attention, etc. Native grasses, shrubs, and perennials have already adapted to the local climate and soil, making them hardy and more drought-resistant. As an added bonus, they also naturally attract local pollinators like bees and butterflies! To find what plants work best, just run a quick online search for “Alabama native plants.” You’ll be sure to find helpful lists and possibly even suggestions for nearby nurseries. 

If you’re tired of mowing, watering, and fertilizing your lawn, ground covers are a great low-maintenance alternative. On his website, home maintenance guru Bob Vila says, “These plants create a pleasingly plush carpet, and there are enough varieties to suit just about any climate and traffic condition.” His website suggests “mat-forming creeping perennials like New Zealand brass buttons (Leptinella squalida), Scotch or Irish moss (Sagina subulata), or low-growing clover.”

I know what you’re thinking, buttoday’s artificial turf has come a long way from the unnatural-looking options of the past. Modern versions are soft, realistic, and come in a variety of shades and textures that actually mimic real lawns. It’s a great option for areas where grass struggles to grow or where you want a clean, green look without the mowing, watering, or fertilizing. While the upfront costs of artificial turf can be on the higher end, it may pay off in the long run with virtually zero maintenance and year-round curb appeal.

They say perennials are the gift that keeps on giving! These plants come back year after year, saving you time and money. Look for popular options like coneflowers (hardy and known for their striking purple blooms), black-eyed susans (a cheerful yellow flower and a staple in many Southern gardens), and hostas (offering lush foliage with varying shades of green, blue, and gold.)

Incorporating hardscaping into your yard is one of the most effective ways to reduce maintenance while adding style and function. Additions like stone pathways, gravel patios, retaining walls, or decorative rock beds require virtually no upkeep and help break up large areas of plantings or grass. You can also use them to create outdoor focal points like seating areas, fire pits, fountains, etc. 

Architectural Digest says “container gardens can be ideal for yards with limited space, but they can also be smart options for those trying to create less work for themselves.”

Containing your plantings in raised beds or large containers is a great option to control weeds and simplify watering. This method is perfect for herbs, veggies, and seasonal flowers—plus it gives your yard structure and design appeal.

Whether it's a drip irrigation system, soaker hoses, or smart sprinkler controllers, automated watering is one of the easiest ways to cut down on yard work. Instead of manually dragging hoses or remembering to water certain areas, you can set a timer and let the system do the work for you. This is especially helpful for people with larger gardens, multiple planting zones, or busy schedules. And the bonus? Automated watering can also save you money!

Remember, creating a beautiful yard doesn’t have to mean constant upkeep or hours of weekend work. By choosing the right plants, and incorporating simple design features, you can build an outdoor space that’s both beautiful and easy to maintain.