The Front Lawn Is Sparse Due to Trees

Grass can be difficult to grow beneath shade trees.

It's not always possible to maintain a beautiful lawn. Grass not only requires regular watering but plenty of sunlight. Tall leafy trees can make a lawn difficult to keep lush and green. Thinning the branches or removing some of the trees completely may remedy a sparse yard. However, there are alternatives to grass when planting in the shade. Several varieties of foliage don't require constant sunshine, yet are as lush and attractive as a traditional lawn.

Instructions

1. 

   Ornamental grasses are an alternative to a traditional lawn.

   Explore your options. Various types of grass grow in shade or dappled sun. Choices include ornamentals -- such as Japanese Hakone grass, which has fountain-like variegated foliage, and the light green palm sedge, which requires low maintenance. Most grow in clumps that reach up to 2 feet high. Ground cover is another option if you want low-lying foliage that gives the appearance of a lawn without the need for mowing. Several species are fond of shade, particularly Corsican mint, which blooms with tiny flowers in the summer.

2. 

   Hydrangeas love shade.

   Replace your lawn with a garden. Many varieties of flowers and plants will grow in the shade. For example, hydrangeas take little sun and produce large, vibrant blooms in the summer and deep green foliage throughout the year. Camellias also enjoy partial shade, growing quite large with a variety of colors to choose from. Ferns are a good nonflowering plant that grow in light to moderate shade and require little maintenance. With hundreds of species to choose from, you'll find a fern that will grow in any type of climate or soil.

3. 

   A patio can be just as attractive as a lush green lawn.

   Try "hardscaping" instead of landscaping. Creating a pleasant and enjoyable outdoor space doesn't mean you must plant only ornamental grasses or flowers. Design an area beneath the trees with rocks or paving stones. Create a path atop the ground cover, and plant on either side with shade-loving flowers and shrubs. Pouring concrete to create a patio is another option. Complement the area with a cute bench or table and chairs. Hanging plants and potted bushes are other options to add color and style.

4. 

   Make sure a professional trims your trees the right way.

   Hire a tree expert to trim your trees so more light gets through to the lawn. Randomly cutting branches may harm the tree, causing its branches to die or decay, which allows fungi to grow. Done correctly, your trees will retain their overall shape and height, while allowing greater sun exposure below. This means your lawn will grow and stay green.

5. 

   One tree can create a striking centerpiece for landscaping.

   Consider removing trees. If you don't mind seeing them go, you may find it's easier to maintain a less-crowded yard. Choose the tree you like the most and remove the rest. This will not only give you a sunny yard, it will give the remaining tree more room to grow while allowing your lawn and other foliage to flourish.

Tips & Warnings

• Visit your local nursery and speak to an expert about your options and what's in stock.

• Review landscaping magazines and books to get ideas for types of plants and flowers for your yard.

• Choose plants, flowers and grass according to your growing zone.

References

• Flower Gardening Made Easy: Ornamental Grasses for Shade
• U. S. Forest Service, Northeastern Area: Pruning Practices That Harm Trees
• The United States National Aboretum: Fern Question and Answers

Resources

• HGTV: Hardscaping