Maintaining a lawn in Maryland’s challenging climate can be expensive and time-consuming, especially in high-traffic areas. This guide explores 10 low-water alternatives that save water, reduce maintenance, and handle foot traffic effectively. Whether you’re looking for living ground covers like creeping thyme or durable solutions like synthetic turf, these options can transform your yard into a functional, water-efficient space.

Key Highlights:

• Creeping Thyme: Fragrant, drought-tolerant, and great for moderate traffic.
• Dwarf Mondo Grass: Ideal for shaded areas with minimal maintenance.
• Microclover: Durable, self-healing, and nitrogen-fixing.
• Corsican Mint: Aromatic and suited for light traffic zones.
• Sedges: Grass-like, low-water, and resilient.
• Golden Creeping Jenny: Vibrant, fast-growing ground cover.
• Mazus: Spreads quickly with light traffic tolerance.
• Chamomile: Aromatic, low-growing, and self-seeding.
• Synthetic Turf: Zero water use, perfect for heavy foot traffic.
• Hardscaping: Durable patios and walkways for long-term solutions.

Quick Comparison:

These options are tailored for Maryland’s climate, balancing durability with water efficiency. Whether you prefer living plants or permanent hardscaping, there’s a solution to fit every need.

10 Ground Cover Plants to Replace Your Lawn

1. Creeping Thyme

Creeping thyme is a fragrant and visually appealing alternative to traditional grass. This low-growing ground cover creates a lush carpet that releases a pleasant aroma when walked on. In late spring and early summer, it bursts into bloom with tiny pink, purple, or white flowers that not only enhance your yard’s appearance but also attract bees and butterflies, adding ecological benefits to your outdoor space.

For Maryland homeowners dealing with moderate foot traffic, creeping thyme offers a practical and charming solution. Varieties like ‘Elfin,’ ‘Mother of Thyme,’ and ‘Red Creeping Thyme’ thrive in the Mid-Atlantic region, with ‘Elfin’ standing out for its compact size and durability.

Water Requirements

Once established, creeping thyme is highly drought-tolerant, needing far less water than a traditional lawn. During its first year, it requires consistent watering to establish strong roots. After that, natural rainfall is usually sufficient, with only occasional deep watering needed during extended dry periods. To avoid problems like root rot, plant creeping thyme in well-drained, sandy soil and ensure it gets full sun exposure.

Traffic Tolerance

Creeping thyme handles moderate foot traffic well, making it a great choice for pathways, play areas, or spaces between stepping stones. Its dense, mat-like growth allows it to bounce back from occasional trampling. For areas with heavy foot traffic, consider adding stepping stones or pavers to distribute weight and extend the lifespan of your ground cover.

Maintenance Needs

Creeping thyme is low-maintenance, requiring no mowing and minimal watering after it’s established. Occasional trimming will help keep its growth even and tidy. Its thick mat naturally suppresses weeds, reducing the need for additional upkeep.

Suitability for Maryland’s Climate

Creeping thyme is well-suited to Maryland’s variable climate. Hardy in USDA Zones 4–9, it can handle the region’s hot, humid summers and cold winters. While some varieties might be sensitive to prolonged humidity, most thrive when planted in full sun with proper drainage. Its ability to withstand freeze-thaw cycles makes it a reliable choice for Maryland’s unpredictable winters. For best results, plant in spring or early fall, spacing plants 6–12 inches apart to encourage quick coverage. During the establishment phase, regular watering is essential, but this can be reduced as the plants mature.

For Maryland homeowners looking to ensure a successful installation, professional landscapers like Pro Landscapes MD can help with site preparation and selecting the right variety, tailoring the process to central Maryland’s specific growing conditions.

2. Dwarf Mondo Grass

Dwarf mondo grass (Ophiopogon japonicus ‘Nanus’) is a compact, easy-to-care-for ground cover that grows in dense clumps of slender, arching leaves. Perfect for shaded areas, it belongs to the lily family and thrives in spots where traditional turf struggles.

Water Requirements

Once established, dwarf mondo grass handles dry conditions well. However, during its first growing season, it’s important to keep the soil consistently moist to help its roots grow strong. Aim for regular watering during this period, and ensure the soil drains well to avoid root rot. After the grass is established, natural rainfall is often enough to sustain it, though occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells can help it stay healthy.

Traffic Tolerance and Maintenance

While it can handle light foot traffic, heavy use may thin its slow-growing coverage. The good news? This ground cover requires minimal upkeep. It doesn’t need mowing or frequent fertilizing. A simple spring cleanup to remove dead or damaged leaves is typically all it takes. Plus, its dense growth naturally keeps weeds at bay, reducing the need for additional maintenance.

Suitability for Maryland’s Climate

Dwarf mondo grass is well-suited to Maryland’s humid summers and cooler winters. It thrives in well-drained soil, but Maryland’s clay-heavy areas may need some adjustments. Adding organic materials like compost or sand can improve drainage and create a more favorable growing environment. For homeowners thinking about planting mondo grass, Pro Landscapes MD can evaluate soil conditions and provide expert advice on preparing the site. Its combination of drought tolerance and low maintenance makes it a smart addition to a water-efficient landscape in the region.

3. Microclover

Microclover (Trifolium repens) is a small-leaved variety of white clover that creates a dense, attractive ground cover, perfect for households with active outdoor spaces. Unlike traditional clover, it integrates smoothly with existing grass, offering excellent drought resilience – a practical option for homeowners looking to conserve water.

Water Requirements

Once established, microclover uses 50–70% less water compared to standard cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, thanks to its deep root system^[1][4]. During the initial germination phase (7–14 days), it’s essential to keep the soil consistently moist. Afterward, natural rainfall is often sufficient, with occasional deep watering needed during extended dry periods. This drought efficiency, combined with its ability to recover from wear, makes it a standout choice for lawns.

Traffic Tolerance and Maintenance

Microclover’s dense, low-growing structure is self-healing, meaning it bounces back quickly from foot traffic and fills in damaged areas with ease. This makes it an excellent option for high-use spaces like play areas and pathways^[2][5]. Maintenance is straightforward – mowing is only necessary every 2–4 weeks during the growing season. Plus, microclover naturally fixes nitrogen in the soil, cutting fertilizer needs by up to 75%^[3]. Issues with pests or diseases are rare, further reducing upkeep.

Suitability for Maryland’s Climate

Microclover thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 4–9, which includes all of Maryland. It handles the state’s hot, humid summers and cold winters with ease, and its drought tolerance aligns well with Maryland’s fluctuating rainfall. To prepare for planting, clear existing vegetation and loosen the soil to a depth of 2–3 inches. Microclover grows best in well-drained soils with a neutral pH (6.0–7.0). For optimal results, sow seeds at a rate of 1–2 pounds per 1,000 square feet in spring or early fall^[1][4].

If you’re unsure about soil preparation or seeding, Pro Landscapes MD can assess your soil conditions and provide expert advice tailored to central Maryland’s varied landscapes. With its resilience and water-saving benefits, microclover is a smart addition to any Maryland yard focused on sustainable landscaping.

4. Corsican Mint

Corsican mint (Mentha requienii) is a fragrant, low-growing ground cover that forms a lush carpet of tiny leaves. Staying under 1 inch tall, it’s a fantastic choice for those who want the look of grass without the high water demands.

Water Requirements

Once it’s settled in, Corsican mint requires much less water than traditional grass. As a Mediterranean native, it needs consistent moisture during its early growth phase but becomes more drought-tolerant over time. In Maryland’s summer climate, light and frequent watering – about once or twice a week – works well, as its shallow roots prefer regular, smaller doses of water.

Traffic Tolerance

This mint variety can handle light to moderate foot traffic. In fact, occasional footsteps release its pleasant minty aroma. However, it’s not ideal for areas with heavy, constant use, as that can cause thinning. Opt for lower-traffic zones to keep it thriving.

Maintenance Needs

Say goodbye to mowing! Corsican mint spreads naturally, helping to suppress weeds. During Maryland’s growing season, you might need to trim the edges two or three times a year to keep it neatly contained. Fertilizing is rarely needed, as it does well in average soil without extra nutrients.

Suitability for Maryland’s Climate

Corsican mint thrives in USDA Zones 6–9, making it a great match for Maryland’s climate. It grows well in partial shade to full sun and can handle the region’s humid summers. While it goes dormant in winter, it reliably bounces back each spring. For the best results, plant it in mid to late April, after the last frost, to take full advantage of the growing season.

If you’re thinking about adding Corsican mint to your yard, Pro Landscapes MD (https://prolandscapesmd.com) can help evaluate your site’s conditions – like soil drainage and sunlight exposure – to ensure this aromatic, low-water ground cover thrives in your landscape.

5. Sedges (Carex spp.)

Sedges are a fantastic low-water alternative to traditional grass, offering a similar look while being far more drought-tolerant. Though they’re often mistaken for grass, sedges belong to a different plant family and bring impressive durability to the table. These clumping perennials form dense, grass-like coverage, thriving where turf grasses often struggle. For Maryland landscapes, popular choices include Pennsylvania sedge (Carex pensylvanica) and buffalo sedge (Carex praegracilis).

Water Requirements

In their first growing season, sedges need about 1 inch of water per week to develop strong root systems. Once established, they rely mostly on natural rainfall and only need deep watering during extended dry spells lasting more than two weeks. Compared to traditional lawns, sedges use about 50–70% less water, making them a smart choice for water-conscious landscaping.

Traffic Tolerance

Selecting the right sedge variety depends on the amount of foot traffic the area will experience. Pennsylvania sedge handles moderate traffic well and even benefits from occasional light trampling, which encourages denser growth. Buffalo sedge, on the other hand, is better suited for heavier use, such as pathways or play areas. However, it’s best to avoid planting sedges in areas with constant heavy activity, like main walkways or sports fields, as their recovery rate is slower than that of traditional grass.

Maintenance Needs

Sedges are incredibly low-maintenance. A single annual trim in late winter or early spring, cutting them back to about 3–4 inches, is usually all they need. Fertilizing is rarely required since they thrive in average soils, and their dense growth naturally suppresses many weeds over time.

Suitability for Maryland’s Climate

Maryland’s USDA Zones 6–7 provide excellent growing conditions for most sedge varieties. They handle the state’s humid summers better than many grass alternatives and stay semi-evergreen through mild winters. Pennsylvania sedge thrives in woodland areas and partial shade, while buffalo sedge prefers sunnier locations. For the best results, plant sedges in late spring (May) or early fall (September).

If you’re looking to incorporate sedges into your landscape, Pro Landscapes MD can help you choose the right variety to fit your vision and create a cohesive, water-efficient design.

6. Golden Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia ‘Aurea’)

Golden Creeping Jenny is a standout ground cover known for its bright chartreuse foliage that forms a dense, carpet-like mat. This fast-growing perennial is ideal for slopes, borders, and areas where grass struggles to thrive. Its vibrant color provides year-round visual appeal.

Water Requirements

Once established, Golden Creeping Jenny is drought-tolerant and requires very little supplemental watering during the growing season. While it needs consistent moisture during its early growth phase, it thrives in slightly dry conditions afterward, which helps prevent root rot. In Maryland’s summer climate, it typically doesn’t need extra watering unless there’s an unusually long dry spell.

Traffic Tolerance

This ground cover can handle light to moderate foot traffic and recovers quickly from occasional trampling. It’s a great choice for garden borders, stepping stone paths, or less-traveled walkways. However, it’s not suited for high-traffic areas like main walkways or active play zones.

Maintenance Needs

Golden Creeping Jenny requires minimal upkeep. It stays compact without mowing, and occasional trimming helps manage its vigorous growth, preventing it from overtaking neighboring plants. This makes it a low-effort option for maintaining a tidy garden.

Suitability for Maryland’s Climate

Golden Creeping Jenny thrives in both full sun and partial shade, with its brightest colors appearing when it gets several hours of direct sunlight each day. For the best results, plant it in late spring or early fall to allow for proper establishment.

For personalized tips on placement and care in Maryland, reach out to Pro Landscapes MD.

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7. Mazus (Mazus reptans)

Mazus reptans is a low-growing perennial that creates a thick, lush carpet of small leaves adorned with purple or white flowers in the spring. This ground cover spreads efficiently via underground runners, making it a fantastic option for filling in spaces between stepping stones, pavers, or other hardscaping areas where grass often struggles to grow.

Water Requirements

Unlike some drought-resistant ground covers, Mazus thrives on consistent moisture and cannot tolerate dry conditions. It needs about 1 to 1.5 inches of water two to three times each week. During Maryland’s hot summers or extended dry spells, water the base of the plant early in the morning to prevent evaporation, and use mulch to help retain soil moisture. A well-mulched base ensures the steady hydration Mazus needs to perform well, even under moderate use.

Traffic Tolerance

Mazus holds up well under light to moderate foot traffic, making it a practical choice for areas with occasional use. It can even be mowed to maintain a tidy, lawn-like look, adding to its versatility as a ground cover.

Maintenance Needs

Once established, Mazus requires minimal upkeep. Naturally compact at just 1–2 inches tall, it rarely needs trimming. For a neater appearance, occasional mowing can promote denser growth. Its spreading habit also means it will naturally fill in bare spots, reducing the need for replanting or overseeding.

Suitability for Maryland’s Climate

Mazus is well-suited to USDA Zones 5–8 and grows in both full sun and partial shade. In sunnier areas, it may need a bit more water during the summer months to stay healthy. Though it goes dormant in the winter, it reliably reemerges in spring, complete with blooms that attract helpful pollinators.

For guidance on incorporating Mazus into a water-efficient Maryland landscape, reach out to Pro Landscapes MD.

8. Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)

Roman chamomile creates a soft, aromatic ground cover with a delightful apple-like fragrance, making it a great choice for walkways and seating areas. This perennial grows low to the ground, forming dense mats of feathery, gray-green foliage topped with cheerful white, daisy-like flowers throughout the growing season.

Water Requirements

Once established, chamomile is impressively drought-tolerant, needing just 0.5 to 1 inch of water per week during dry spells. In Maryland’s hot summers, deep watering once or twice a week works best. Its Mediterranean roots make it naturally suited to dry conditions, though a bit of extra watering during prolonged droughts (over two weeks) helps keep it thriving.

Traffic Tolerance

Roman chamomile can handle moderate foot traffic and even benefits from occasional use, as it tends to spread horizontally and grow more compact with light pressure. However, it’s not the best option for high-traffic areas like busy walkways or play zones. Instead, it shines in spaces with lighter use, like garden paths or areas near outdoor seating.

Maintenance Needs

This plant is incredibly easy to care for once it’s established. Staying naturally low at 3 to 6 inches tall, chamomile doesn’t require mowing. You can deadhead the flowers to encourage more blooms or leave them in place to attract pollinators and add visual interest. In late fall, trim back any brown foliage to about 2 inches above the ground to prepare it for winter dormancy.

Suitability for Maryland’s Climate

Roman chamomile is well-suited to Maryland’s climate, thriving in USDA Zones 4-9. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, although fewer flowers may bloom in shadier spots. The plant goes dormant in winter and reemerges in spring, often self-seeding to naturally fill in bare patches, creating a lush, uniform ground cover over time.

For expert advice on incorporating chamomile into Maryland landscapes, Pro Landscapes MD can help you design a water-efficient, low-maintenance outdoor space. Stay tuned to discover another hardy, low-water plant perfect for Maryland gardens.

9. Synthetic Turf

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, durable alternative to traditional grass, synthetic turf might be the perfect solution. Today’s synthetic turf boasts realistic textures and natural-looking color variations, making it a great option for homeowners who want the appearance of grass without the upkeep. Plus, it pairs well with other low-water landscape options.

Water Requirements

One of the biggest advantages of synthetic turf is that it doesn’t need any irrigation – none at all. Once installed, it’s the most water-efficient choice you can make. Sure, you’ll need to rinse it occasionally to clean off dust, pet waste, or debris, but this minimal water use is strictly for maintenance, not growth. During Maryland’s hot summers, a quick spray with the hose every few weeks is enough to keep it looking fresh and free of pollen or dirt.

Traffic Tolerance

Synthetic turf shines when it comes to handling heavy foot traffic. It’s built to withstand constant use without developing bare spots or showing wear and tear. Whether it’s kids running around, pets playing, outdoor parties, or even sports, it stays lush and intact year-round. The backing systems are designed to provide cushioning while remaining firm, making it ideal for high-use areas like play zones, dog runs, and well-traveled paths – places where natural grass would struggle to survive.

Maintenance Needs

Maintaining synthetic turf is refreshingly simple. Forget about mowing, fertilizing, or regular watering – those chores are a thing of the past. Instead, you’ll save time with occasional light maintenance. Brushing the fibers with a stiff broom helps keep them upright, especially in spots that see a lot of activity. In the fall, leaf removal is a breeze since you can use a leaf blower without worrying about damaging roots. For hygiene, solid waste can be removed easily, and a quick rinse now and then keeps the surface clean.

Suitability for Maryland’s Climate

Maryland’s unpredictable weather is no match for high-quality synthetic turf. These systems are built to handle everything from freezing winter temperatures to scorching summer heat – no cracking, fading, or breaking down. The UV-resistant fibers hold their color even in the intense summer sun, and advanced drainage systems ensure water doesn’t pool during Maryland’s heavy spring rains or tropical storms.

Even in winter, synthetic turf holds up beautifully. Snow and ice won’t damage it, though frozen surfaces can be slippery. Unlike natural grass, which goes dormant and turns brown, synthetic turf stays green all year long – even during Maryland’s gray, chilly winters.

If you’re considering synthetic turf for your yard, Pro Landscapes MD can help you decide if it’s the right fit for your space and install a high-quality system designed to thrive in Maryland’s climate.

10. Hardscaping Elements (Patios, Walkways)

Hardscaping features like patios and walkways provide a durable, low-maintenance option for areas that see a lot of foot traffic. Made from materials such as flagstone, concrete pavers, or natural stone, these elements combine practicality with aesthetic appeal.

They’re especially useful in spots where traditional lawns often struggle, like entryways, entertainment areas, play zones, and busy pathways. Instead of dealing with patchy grass, muddy spots, or uneven growth, you get a dependable, attractive solution that holds up all year long.

Water Requirements

One of the biggest advantages of hardscaping is its minimal water usage. Once installed, these surfaces don’t require ongoing irrigation. Water is only needed during the installation process – for tasks like mixing concrete or cleaning pavers. This makes hardscaping a smart choice for conserving water, potentially cutting outdoor water use by up to 50% or more^[6].

Traffic Tolerance

Hardscaping materials like concrete pavers and flagstone are built to handle heavy use without showing signs of wear. Unlike lawns, they won’t develop bare spots or compacted areas. Whether it’s hosting outdoor gatherings, kids running around, or simply creating a reliable pathway, these surfaces stay strong and even become more stable over time.

Maintenance Needs

Hardscaping is not only water-efficient and durable but also easy to maintain. Basic upkeep involves occasional sweeping, clearing debris, and perhaps a power wash once or twice a year to keep the surfaces looking fresh. Over time, minor repairs like refilling joints between pavers or re-leveling a shifted paver may be needed, but these tasks are infrequent and far less demanding than the constant mowing, watering, and pest control that lawns require.

Suitability for Maryland’s Climate

Maryland’s climate, with its hot, humid summers and cold winters featuring freeze-thaw cycles, is ideal for hardscaping when installed correctly. Materials like concrete pavers and natural stone are chosen for their ability to withstand temperature changes without cracking or shifting. Proper installation, including a well-prepared base and adequate drainage, is essential for ensuring these features last. When done right, patios and walkways can endure for 20–30 years or more, standing up to Maryland’s variable weather.

Pro Landscapes MD has completed many patio and walkway projects in communities across central Maryland, including Bethesda, Columbia, and Silver Spring. These hardscaping solutions not only handle daily wear and tear but also enhance property value and curb appeal, making them a practical and attractive choice for homeowners.

Comparison Chart

Here’s a handy chart to quickly compare the key features of different ground cover options tailored to Maryland’s unique landscape needs.

This overview highlights the strengths of each option. For high-traffic areas, microclover, sedges, synthetic turf, and hardscaping stand out for their durability. If you’re looking for low-maintenance choices, hardscaping and dwarf mondo grass are excellent picks. For a pop of color or fragrance, consider golden creeping jenny or chamomile.

When it comes to water efficiency and resilience in Maryland’s climate, creeping thyme, microclover, and sedges shine. For long-lasting, water-saving solutions, hardscaping offers unmatched durability and functionality, making it a great fit for Maryland’s variable weather.

Conclusion

Switching to low-water lawn alternatives for high-traffic areas offers Maryland homeowners a smart way to conserve water while maintaining durability and aesthetic appeal. Options like the aromatic blooms of creeping thyme or the practicality of hardscaping elements can beautifully complement Maryland’s ever-changing climate.

The success of these alternatives hinges on proper planning and installation. Factors like soil preparation, drainage, and plant selection need careful attention to ensure your landscape thrives over time. Skipping these steps can lead to plant failures and drainage problems, which may result in higher costs down the line. That’s why expert guidance is crucial to avoid costly mistakes and achieve long-lasting results.

For homeowners in central Maryland, Pro Landscapes MD offers tailored solutions to create sustainable and functional outdoor spaces. Their team focuses on eco-friendly practices, incorporating native plants and efficient water management techniques. With custom landscape design and full installation support, they help clients choose the best options for their specific needs. Backed by a 4.8/5 rating from 202 reviews on Thumbtack^[8], their expertise shines through in every project.

"From the start, it was clear that I needed help bringing my landscape up to date and that I also needed something that was low maintenance. David was incredibly knowledgeable and quoted me something that would work well for my situation." – Curtina S., Customer (Sep 2024)^[7]

Whether you prefer living ground covers like microclover and sedges or permanent features like flagstone patios and paver walkways, investing in professional installation ensures your landscape is both water-efficient and low-maintenance. By following this approach, you’ll not only enhance your property’s value but also create a thriving outdoor space tailored to your needs. From microclover to flagstone, every element will be designed to perform at its best.

FAQs

What are the advantages of choosing low-water lawn alternatives in Maryland?

Benefits of Low-Water Lawn Alternatives in Maryland

Switching to low-water lawn options in Maryland comes with a host of advantages. Choices like drought-tolerant ground covers and native grasses use far less water than traditional lawns, making them a smart way to conserve resources and cut down on water bills. Plus, these plants are perfectly suited to Maryland’s climate, which often swings between heavy rainfall and dry spells – conditions that can be tough on conventional turf grasses.

But the benefits go beyond just water savings. These alternatives need less upkeep, cutting back on mowing and reducing the reliance on fertilizers and pesticides. Even better, they support local ecosystems by encouraging biodiversity, creating a healthier environment for plants, pollinators, and wildlife. By opting for these low-water solutions, you can design an outdoor space that not only thrives in Maryland’s climate but also contributes to a greener, more sustainable community.

What are the best drought-tolerant ground covers for high-traffic areas in my yard?

When selecting a drought-tolerant ground cover for areas with heavy foot traffic, it’s important to pick plants that can handle wear and tear while thriving with minimal water. Some solid options include creeping thyme, woolly thyme, and rupturewort – all known for their durability and low water needs. Other reliable choices like Thymus serpyllum and Herniaria glabra are also celebrated for their toughness and ability to endure constant use.

Keep in mind factors such as your local climate, soil conditions, and the specific requirements of your yard when making your choice. These plants not only help conserve water but also bring a touch of natural charm and practicality to high-traffic outdoor spaces.

How can I successfully install and maintain low-water lawn alternatives for high-traffic areas?

To help your low-water lawn alternatives thrive in areas with heavy foot traffic, start by preparing the soil properly. Clear out any weeds, loosen the soil to improve drainage, and add a layer of mulch. Mulch helps retain moisture and keeps new weeds at bay. Next, select tough, drought-resistant plants like creeping thyme, clover, or moss. These plants not only stand up to regular use but also need very little water or mowing to stay healthy.

When it comes to upkeep, make sure to water deeply during long dry spells, trim or divide plants occasionally to control their growth, and refresh the mulch layer to maintain soil health. With thoughtful preparation and regular care, you can enjoy a lush, durable, and water-saving landscape.

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