Keeping a beautiful yard can be a labor of love, but some features can turn that love into a full-time job. If you value your free time, you might want to think twice before adding these high-maintenance features to your outdoor space.
1. Exotic Plants and Trees
While they can be beautiful and unique, exotic plants and trees often require specific conditions to thrive that can be hard to replicate in your local climate. You might end up spending a lot of time and money on special fertilizers, soil amendments, and even climate-control equipment. Not to mention, some exotic species can become invasive if they escape into the local environment.
Opting for native plants can save you a lot of hassle while also benefiting local wildlife and the environment.
2. Oversized Lawns
Keeping a large lawn looking good requires regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing. If you live in a drought-prone area, maintaining a lush green lawn can also be incredibly water-intensive. Plus, lawns offer little in terms of biodiversity or habitat for wildlife.
Consider xeriscaping or creating a wildflower meadow instead. These alternatives are less labor-intensive and more environmentally friendly.
3. Water Features like Ponds and Fountains
Water features can be stunning focal points, but they also require regular maintenance to prevent algae buildup, repair leaks, and keep pumps and filters working. In colder climates, you’ll also need to winterize your water features to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.
Instead, consider a bird bath or a rain garden, which can provide many of the same benefits with less upkeep.
4. Intricate Landscape Designs
Intricate landscape designs with multiple plant types, different levels, and various features can quickly become overwhelming. Each element requires its own care, and keeping everything looking its best can be a full-time job.
Remember, sometimes less is more. A simple, well-maintained landscape can be just as beautiful as a complex one, and much easier to maintain.
5. Swimming Pools
Swimming pools can be great for hot summer days, but they also require a lot of work. You’ll need to regularly check and adjust the water chemistry, clean the pool, and maintain the filter system. Plus, pools can be expensive to heat and can increase your liability insurance.
For a lower-maintenance option, consider a natural swimming pond or a splash pad for the kids.
6. Gravel Paths
Gravel paths can add a rustic charm to your garden, but they also require a lot of upkeep. The gravel can easily spread into your lawn or garden beds, and weeds can quickly take over if you’re not diligent about maintenance.
Consider a paved or brick path instead. They’ll require less maintenance and won’t have the same issues with spreading or weeds.
7. Hedges and Topiaries
Hedges and topiaries can create a formal, manicured look, but they require regular trimming to keep their shape. This can be a time-consuming and precise task, especially for intricate topiaries.
For a lower-maintenance option, consider using native shrubs or ornamental grasses. They can provide a similar effect with less work.
8. Wooden Decks and Patios
Wooden decks and patios can provide a great outdoor living space, but they also require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. You’ll need to periodically clean, seal, and possibly stain the wood to protect it from the elements.
Consider using composite decking or a stone patio instead. These materials can be more durable and require less maintenance.
9. Vegetable Gardens
While growing your own food can be rewarding, vegetable gardens also require a lot of work. You’ll need to prepare the soil, plant the seeds, water regularly, and deal with pests and diseases.
Consider a smaller herb garden or a few container plants instead. You’ll still get the satisfaction of growing your own food, but with less work.
10. Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses can add texture and movement to your landscape, but they also require regular grooming to keep them looking their best. Many types need to be cut back annually, and some can become invasive if not properly managed.
Consider using native grasses or perennials instead. They can provide a similar effect with less maintenance.
11. Outdoor Kitchens
Outdoor kitchens can make your backyard the perfect place for entertaining, but they also require regular cleaning and maintenance. Plus, the outdoor elements can quickly wear down appliances and fixtures.
Consider a simple grill or fire pit instead. They can provide many of the same benefits with less upkeep.
12. Stone Walls and Fences
Stone walls and fences can add a timeless elegance to your landscape, but they also require regular maintenance. Over time, stones can shift and mortar can crack, requiring repairs. Wooden fences need to be periodically cleaned, painted or stained to prevent rot and decay.
Consider using vinyl fencing or a living fence made of shrubs or trees instead. They can provide similar privacy and aesthetic benefits with less maintenance.
13. Playgrounds and Treehouses
Playgrounds and treehouses can be a hit with the kids, but they also require regular safety checks and maintenance. Wood can rot and metal can rust, and any moving parts need to be regularly inspected and repaired as necessary.
Consider a simple sandbox or swing instead. They can provide just as much fun for the kids, but with less upkeep. And remember, no matter what features you choose for your yard, the most important thing is to create a space that you and your family can enjoy without feeling overwhelmed by maintenance tasks.
Choosing the right features can enhance your property value while also making your yard a more enjoyable and manageable space.