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Low-maintenance landscaping ideas

Low-maintenance landscaping ideas

Easy outdoor landscaping

By: Claire Ruhlin

Outdoor landscaping may seem daunting and labor-intensive, but refreshing the exterior of your home can be simple and impactful. Low-maintenance outdoor landscaping offers numerous advantages for homeowners seeking a beautiful and functional outdoor space without excessive upkeep.

One of the primary benefits of low-maintenance landscaping is a significant reduction in the time and work required for maintenance tasks such as mowing, weeding, and pruning. This allows you to enjoy your outdoor space and improve the look of your home without dedicating countless hours to its upkeep.

Low-maintenance landscaping can also be cost-effective in the long run, minimizing expenses associated with water usage, fertilizers, and frequent replacements. Follow these low-maintenance landscaping ideas to spruce up your yard.

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Faux greenery

Artificial plants offer a low-maintenance solution for adding greenery to outdoor spaces. Not only do they require no watering or pruning, but faux greenery from luxury brands such as Enduraleaf and Pottery Pots are incredibly lifelike and engineered to last throughout a variety of weather conditions and seasons.


To maximize the natural appearance, lok for artificial greenery made from high-quality materials and arrange them thoughtfully. Faux greenery works well for accents, borders, or filling in sparse areas among living plants. Make sure to regularly clean and groom artificial plants to maintain their fresh look. Style faux plants with a beautiful outdoor planter to create an elevated look (that no one will ever guess is fake).

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Water features

Incorporating water features into your outdoor space can add a calming ambiance and natural beauty. You also don’t need an elaborate pond to achieve this look; water fountains or wall fountains are great, self-contained options. These features typically include water pumps and are made with durable and low-maintenence materials designed to last for seasons to come. They also typically require minor assembly and are incredibly versatile, making them great options for backyards, patios, or side landscaping alike.

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Mulch or stones

Mulch and rocks are popular options for landscaping, offering distinct benefits and drawbacks. Mulch, made from organic materials like wood chips or bark, helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and enrich the soil as it decomposes. It requires annual replenishment but is generally more cost-effective.

Rocks, on the other hand, provide a low-maintenance, long-lasting ground cover. They are available in various colors and textures, from pebbles to boulders, offering a natural or modern aesthetic. However, rocks can absorb and radiate heat, potentially drying out nearby plants, which means you may need to water them more often. When choosing between mulch or rocks, consider factors like your desired aesthetic, maintenance preferences, and the specific needs of your plants and landscaping design.

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Container gardens and planters

Container gardens are a versatile and low-maintenance option for outdoor landscaping. They offer flexibility, allowing you to display greenery or flowers on patios, decks, or even balconies. Choose plants that thrive in containers, such as succulents, herbs, or compact flowering annuals. For added interest, mix plants with different textures, colors, and heights.

When it comes to maintenance, container gardens require regular watering and occasional fertilization, but they are generally easier to manage than traditional garden beds. Consider using self-watering containers or installing a drip irrigation system to minimize your workload.

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Native Plants

Native plants are naturally well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, making them an excellent low-maintenance choice for outdoor landscaping. Native plants can also require less water, fertilizer, and pesticides than non-native species, reducing the time and resources needed for upkeep. What’s more, landscaping with native plantings can help sustain local ecosystems and biodiversity.

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Perennials

Perennials are an excellent choice for low-maintenance landscaping because they come back year after year, reducing the need for replanting. Once established, many perennials require minimal care beyond occasional watering and weeding. Some low-maintenance perennials include echinacea, hostas, black-eyed Susans, and peonies.

To keep perennials thriving with little work, choose plants suited to your climate and soil conditions. Amend the soil with compost or manure when planting, and apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch annually to retain moisture and suppress weeds. With the right perennial choices, you can enjoy beautiful blooms year after year with minimal maintenance required.

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