Between the droughts that plague so many parts of our country, the environmental toll that weed killers and other pesticides can take, and the questionable logic of tending to a big expanse of grass—pulling plants that “don’t belong,” cutting it each week only to dispose of it, and avoiding ever stepping foot on it unless it’s behind our house—lawns are falling out of favor. Take a look at how lawns began and became popular, the factors behind their progressive downfall, and a few ideas for what to grow (or not grow) instead.
I’ve always found it odd how much effort we put into keeping front lawns pristine, almost like they’re a status symbol rather than something we actually use. The environmental cost is hard to ignore—especially when you consider how much water and chemicals go into maintaining them. For instance, the EPA estimates that about one-third of all residential water use in the U.S. goes to outdoor landscaping, with lawns being the biggest culprit. That’s a staggering amount when you think about drought-stricken areas struggling to conserve water. Switching to alternatives like native plants or xeriscaping could cut that water use by up to 75%, depending on the region. Plus, reducing pesticide use not only saves money but also protects local pollinators, like bees, which are critical for food crops. If you’re tired of the weekly mowing grind, it might be worth exploring what else your yard could do for you.
Early Lawns: Status and Security
One origin story references lawns as a medieval security feature: The treeless grassy expanses that surrounded medieval castles made it easier to see approaching visitors—and encroaching enemies. In 16th and 17th century Europe, lawns served as a status symbol, since only wealthy landowners could spare the laborers necessary to tend a fruitless patch of turf.
It’s wild to think that something as simple as a lawn started as a way to spot invaders! Back then, maintaining a lawn was a flex—only the elite could afford to have land that didn’t produce food or resources. This wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about power. Today, that status-driven mindset lingers in some neighborhoods, but it’s worth noting that keeping a lawn purely for looks can cost homeowners anywhere from $500 to $3,000 a year, depending on lawn size and maintenance needs, according to the Lawn Care Industry Report. Instead of pouring money into grass, I’ve seen folks in my area switch to low-maintenance ground covers like clover, which not only looks great but also supports local ecosystems by attracting pollinators. It’s a practical way to keep the “status” without the hassle.
The Victorian Lawn-dry
Travel back to Victorian-era England and ask a laundress at any country estate how she gets her whites so white, and she’d point to the great green spaces where both grass and hedges were draped with sheets, towels, ladies’ frocks, and other white garments. These “drying grounds” were the forerunner of our modern clotheslines. Sunshine and chlorophyll helped to bleach these linens as they dried.
I love this quirky bit of history—lawns doubling as giant laundry bleach stations! The science behind it is pretty cool: chlorophyll in grass releases oxygen when exposed to sunlight, which has a natural bleaching effect on fabrics. It’s a reminder that lawns once had practical uses beyond just looking pretty. If you’re intrigued by this eco-friendly approach, you could try hanging clothes outside to dry, which can save about 5% on your energy bill annually, according to the Department of Energy. Plus, it’s a low-effort way to tap into that Victorian ingenuity while cutting down on dryer use. I’ve done it myself on sunny days, and there’s something satisfying about linens smelling like fresh air.
Bowling (and Golfing) Greens
Since they needn’t maintain it, wealthy lawn- and homeowners had time to enjoy their yards through sporting pursuits such as lawn bowling, tennis, and croquet. These games migrated from the United Kingdom to Canada and the United States in the latter half of the 19th century, but none proved to have the same staying power (at least not on grass) as Scotland’s wildly popular export, golf. This pursuit was so closely paired with green lawns that from 1910 to 1924, the U.S. Golf Association teamed up with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to fund research related to grass cultivation.
It’s no surprise that golf became the poster child for lush lawns—those perfectly manicured greens are practically an art form. But maintaining that level of perfection comes at a cost. Golf courses in the U.S. use about 2.08 billion gallons of water daily, according to the Golf Course Superintendents Association. For homeowners, replicating that look is a losing battle, especially in dry climates. If you’re a fan of lawn games, consider swapping out grass for a durable, low-maintenance surface like artificial turf or even a gravel court for bocce. I’ve seen neighbors host epic backyard game nights with these setups, and they’re way easier to maintain than a golf-course-inspired lawn.
Front Lawns vs. Backyards
Homes sandwiched between two outdoor spaces are the norm in many suburban and rural communities in the U.S., but that’s changing. Traditionally, front lawns have been aesthetic rather than practical in nature, perhaps because they’re typically visible to passersby. Backyards, of course, tend to be private zones where we relax, grow food, cook and eat, gather, and play. The popularity of functional front yards is growing, however, as Americans embrace sustainability and eschew high maintenance.
I’ve noticed more folks in my neighborhood ditching the front lawn for something useful, like vegetable gardens or native plant beds. It makes sense—why maintain a space you barely use? Converting a front lawn to a functional space can save you time and money while boosting curb appeal. For example, a small front-yard garden with raised beds can yield enough herbs and veggies to cut your grocery bill by $50-$100 a month, based on average home garden yields reported by the National Gardening Association. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with neighbors who stop by to admire (or snag) some fresh basil. If you’re worried about HOA rules, start small with a few potted plants to test the waters.
Grass Lawns and Water Consumption
According to a study released by the United Nations in 2022, the frequency and severity of drought conditions has increased by one-third since 2000. Even more alarming? Within the next three decades, drought will take a toll on 75 percent of the world’s population. In the face of this crisis, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for homeowners to justify the use of water to maintain acres of purely ornamental plant growth.
The drought stats are eye-opening, and they hit home when you see your water bill spike during summer. Lawns can guzzle up to 30% of a household’s water usage, especially in arid regions like the Southwest. I’ve talked to friends who’ve switched to drip irrigation systems for their gardens, which can reduce water use by up to 50% compared to traditional sprinklers, per the EPA. If you’re not ready to rip out your lawn entirely, try watering early in the morning to minimize evaporation or installing a rain barrel to collect runoff. These small changes can make a big difference without sacrificing your yard’s look.
What Is Xeriscaping?
One of the most well-known alternatives to green lawns is xeriscaping—a relatively new, catchall term for “dry landscaping.” Xeriscaping brings to mind stark, cactus-rich tableaus in shades of brown and gray, but there’s more to it than succulents and gravel. Depending on the climate, xeriscaping can include herbs, shrubs, perennial flowers, ground cover, vines, and other drought-tolerant plant life.
Xeriscaping is a game-changer for anyone looking to save water and time. I was surprised to learn that a well-designed xeriscape can reduce outdoor water use by 60% or more, according to the National Xeriscaping Council. It’s not just about cacti—think lavender, sage, or even ornamental grasses that thrive in your local climate. When I helped a friend set up a xeriscaped front yard, we focused on native plants, which not only looked amazing but also attracted butterflies and birds. Start by checking your region’s native plant list (most state extension services have one) and group plants with similar water needs to maximize efficiency.
The Rewilding Trend
Rewilding, aka conservation biology, seeks to reclaim landscapes that have been harmed by human interference and to restore healthy and biodiverse ecosystems. As the name implies, rewilding is, at its essence, the decision by humans to let nature take over once again. This approach is not without its critics, though—performed haphazardly, it can harm existing landscapes, its consequences aren’t predictable, and rewilding initiatives have not always been successful. That said, you can practice it on a household scale, relatively risk-free, by introducing native plants to your yard in lieu of highly cultivated grasses and other greenery.
Rewilding feels like giving your yard permission to be its natural self, and I’m all for it. Native plants can increase local biodiversity by up to 50%, according to studies from the National Wildlife Federation, because they provide habitat for pollinators and wildlife. I’ve seen rewilded yards in my area burst with wildflowers and buzzing bees—it’s like a mini nature reserve. If you’re new to this, start small with a corner of your yard and plant natives like coneflowers or milkweed. Just check with your local nursery to avoid invasive species, as those can do more harm than good.
Front-Yard Food Gardens
One of the most sensible ways to fill a front yard is with plants that yield useful and/or delicious crops, but some folks still balk at the extra work or the aesthetics of growing food outside their front door. If the idea of creating traditional rows to hoe is too much, consider an herb garden or raised-bed garden.
I get why some people hesitate about front-yard veggie gardens—nobody wants their house to look like a farm. But a well-designed raised bed with neat rows of herbs or colorful veggies like kale and tomatoes can be downright gorgeous. Plus, homegrown produce can save you money—studies show the average gardener can harvest $600 worth of food annually from a small plot. I started with a few herb pots on my porch, and now I’ve got a raised bed with basil and peppers that’s become a neighborhood talking point. If you’re worried about upkeep, stick to low-maintenance crops like rosemary or chives, which practically grow themselves.
