Native Lawns: A Low-Maintenance Alternative

By Tegan Osborne

ABC Lifestyle

Gardening

Friday, 10 July 2026, 3:00 pm

This lawn uses a type of native weeping grass. It is a good option for people who want a low-maintenance lawn.

If you are tired of mowing your lawn, consider using a native grass instead of traditional grass.

Native grasses need less water and care than traditional grass. They can also be used as decorative plants.

Matthew Henderson, a horticulture expert, says native grasses are good for the environment and can be beautiful.

Native grasses come in many types and can be used in different ways.

Matthew Henderson uses native grasses in his garden designs.

Here are some native grasses you can use as lawn substitutes.

Weeping grass is a good option, but it may not be suitable for areas with heavy foot traffic.

Weeping grass is a low-maintenance option that can thrive in shady areas.

Another option is native and hybrid native Zoysia varieties.

Before planting native grass, make sure it is suitable for your area.

Wallaby grass is a hardy option that can grow well in harsh climates.

Wallaby grass can be grown from seed and can be mowed like traditional grass.

Native grasses need some care when they are first planted, but they are low-maintenance in the long run.

You may only need to mow a native grass lawn once or twice a year.

Tracey Bool and Erin Nugent are horticulture experts who work with native plants.

The mowing needs of native lawns depend on the type of grass and the look you want.

Native grasses can create a different kind of lawn that is more natural and low-maintenance.

Some native lawns may not be suitable for children to play on.

Native grasses are better suited to Australian summers than traditional grass.

Native grasses can stay green even in harsh weather conditions.

Native grasses can be used to create beautiful landscapes and gardens.

Common tussock grass is a good plant for adding interest and movement to your garden.

Poa labillardiere is a type of native grass that can be used in landscaping.

When planted in drifts, Poa labillardiere can create a beautiful wave of color in your garden.

Kangaroo grass is another option that can be used in a similar way.

Kangaroo grass is a good option for beginners because it is easy to grow.

Native grasses can be used for erosion control and as a living mulch.

Native grasses can help keep your soil cool and protect its biodiversity.

Dianella and Lomandra are strappy plants that can be used in landscaping.

These plants can attract insects and bugs that can pollinate your garden and improve soil health.

Dianella has a lovely purple flower that can help with pollination.

Lomandra can be used for weaving and its leaves can be used as a food source.

Before eating any plant, make sure you have correctly identified it and that it is not poisonous.

Lomandra longifolia or Lomandra hystrix are good options that are relatively easy to find.

Dianella Tasmanica is a good tall option that can grow to more than a meter.

There are many types of Dianella and Lomandra that you can use in your garden.

Native grasses can be used for erosion control and as a living mulch.

To find native grasses, you can visit specialist native nurseries or online retailers.

Before planting, research the native grasses that are local to your area.

Local councils and community nurseries can be a great source of information.

The Australian Native Plant Society is a good resource for learning about native plants.

More gardening tips are available online.

Gardening is a popular topic.

Gardening is a fun and rewarding hobby.

Learn more about gardening and other topics.

Friday, 10 July 2026, 3:00 pm

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