If you’re tired of the high maintenance and monotonous look of traditional grass lawns, Australian native plants may be the perfect solution for your backyard. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they are also easy to maintain and beneficial for biodiversity. To explore the benefits and options of using Australian natives as a lawn alternative, we spoke to Zach Barnett and Ronan Shiels from Boronia Landscapes, a Sydney-based landscaping business with a focus on sustainability and native planting.
Why choose an Australian native lawn as an alternative to grass?
According to Barnett and Shiels, native lawns are well-suited to Australian gardens because they are adapted to our unique environment. By using native plants instead of imported grass species, your garden can better withstand local weather conditions, climate, and ecosystems. Choosing species that are endemic to your region, such as common tussock grass or Poa labillardieri, ensures that your lawn will thrive in its natural habitat.
List of Australian native lawn alternatives
When it comes to selecting native plants for your lawn, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some popular choices include Dichondra repens, native violet, spear grass, kangaroo grass, wallaby grass, barbed wire grass, windmill grass, creeping grevillea, Australian daisy, pigface, and lomandra. Each plant offers unique characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for different growing conditions.
Sourcing native plants for your lawn
While native plants may not always be readily available at traditional nurseries, specialized native nurseries in your area are likely to carry a variety of native species. Barnett and Shiels recommend visiting these nurseries in person to ensure you find the best stock for your garden. By supporting native nurseries, you can access a wider selection of native plants and contribute to the preservation of Australian flora.
Benefits of native lawn alternatives
Native lawns offer several advantages over traditional grass lawns. They are soft underfoot, visually appealing, and require less maintenance. Unlike conventional lawns that need frequent watering and upkeep, native lawns are more resilient and can thrive in challenging conditions like shade. Additionally, native lawns promote biodiversity by providing habitat and food sources for native wildlife, contributing to a healthier ecosystem in your backyard.
Planting a native lawn
Planting a native lawn is a straightforward process that can be done with the help of tubestock plants and native-specific soil and fertilizers. By following a few simple steps and being patient as your lawn grows and fills in, you can create a lush and sustainable native garden. Barnett and Shiels recommend mixing native seed with tubestock plants for even coverage and using high-quality soil to support plant growth.
Why plant with sustainability and native plants in mind?
For Barnett and Shiels, the decision to focus on native and sustainable landscaping stems from their love of Australian flora and the desire to make a positive impact on the environment. By prioritizing native plants and biodiversity in their work, they aim to create healthier and more resilient landscapes that benefit both people and wildlife. Their commitment to sustainability and native planting reflects a growing trend towards environmentally conscious gardening practices.
In conclusion, Australian native plants offer a beautiful and practical alternative to traditional grass lawns. By choosing native species that are well-suited to your local environment, you can create a low-maintenance, biodiverse garden that enhances the natural beauty of your backyard. Whether you opt for native violet, kangaroo grass, or creeping grevillea, incorporating native plants into your lawn can have a lasting impact on the health and sustainability of your outdoor space.