What would be good for a backyard?
Question:I was just wondering I have a small backyard and dont want the hassle of grass right now we have rock and I hate it, I have 2 dogs and was wondering what would be good back there that would also look decent.
Answers:
Hauling out the rock is going to be a chore, and once it's bare of rock, what do you have? Dirt.
There's not much that's less hassle than grass; that's why so many people have so much of it. But if your back yard is small, you could use mulch.
Chocolate mulch is very attractive and you get a little smell as well, but with 2 dogs, you don't want to chance it. A dog has to eat about half his weight in Hershey bars to have even a 50% chance of dying from the theobromine, but the mulch is VERY high in theobromine, and the smell attracts some dogs.
Pine mulch seems to work fine, though. Pine tends to suppress germination, and you can get some mesh fabric at garden supply stores that will let water go down through it, but won't let weeds grow up.
You say you don't want the hassle of grass "right now". That mesh will only last a few years, and by that time, you may be ready to rake the pine mulch off and get to planting.
If you get hardwood mulch instead, you'll have a little more problem with weeds now, and a little less problem getting grass to grow later. I'd go with the hardwood, myself, but then, I'd probably skip the mulch, and go directly to grass.
I suggest planting native shrubs that require low maintenance. Depending on where you live and the climate, Mexican sage does beautifully and attracts hummingbirds.
You can mulch around the plant to prevent grass from growing. The dogs can run around it. It could be a nice small attraction to your space. If you can hang plants from a back porch or something, that could look nice. Hanging succulents are attractive and will give you years of enjoyment.
Holly
I would first need to know what zone/area you are in to even suggest a plant. Second, what is the square footage you are dealing with (small is a relative term). Is it full sun, partial shade, full shade? Just as important - are the dogs Male or Female?
I know I can help you with this situation. I am at gjgjobs@yahoo.com.
Plant a small garden with vibrant colors! that always brightens up any yard. I also have an ornamental pond that is not more than 2 1/2 feet long and it takes a little effort but it is really nice to look at and enjoy. You can buy a plastic lining at a hardware store if you would be interested.you can also buy pre-shaped linings that are a little easier to install...there are many possibilities so don't give up!
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