If you’re looking to enhance the often-overlooked area beside your home, there are several side of the house landscaping ideas that will transform the place into a beautiful, low-maintenance haven. Whether you’re aiming for a lush green space or a simple, clean look, we’ve got you covered with ideas that require minimal upkeep.
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The 20 Low Maintenance Side of House Landscaping Ideas
Creating a stylish and functional space on the side of your house doesn’t have to be difficult. Here are twenty innovative and low maintenance side of house landscaping ideas that are both practical and visually appealing.
1. Gravel Pathway with Potted Plants
A gravel pathway is a simple and elegant solution for the side of your house. Gravel is inexpensive, easy to install, and requires minimal maintenance. Add some potted plants along the path to bring color and life to the space.
Choose drought-tolerant plants such as succulents or ornamental grasses to keep maintenance low.
2. Vertical Garden
Maximize your space by creating a vertical garden. Install trellises or use wall-mounted planters to grow climbing plants and flowers. This approach not only saves ground space but also adds a lush, green backdrop to the side of your house.
Opt for plants like ivy, jasmine, or climbing roses that are easy to maintain.
3. Rock Garden
A rock garden is a perfect low-maintenance landscaping idea for the side of the house. Use a variety of rocks and pebbles to create interesting patterns and textures.
Incorporate hardy, drought-resistant plants such as sedums and cacti to keep the garden looking great with minimal effort.
4. Ground Cover Plants
Replace traditional grass with ground cover plants. Varieties like creeping thyme, ajuga, and periwinkle are low-maintenance and can handle foot traffic.
These ground cover plants spread quickly, suppress weeds, and require less water than a lawn, making them ideal for the side of the house.
5. Mulched Flower Beds
Create flower beds and cover them with mulch to retain moisture and reduce weed growth. Choose low-maintenance perennials such as hostas, daylilies, and lavender.
These plants require little attention and will add vibrant colors to your side yard.
6. Decorative Stones and Statues
Use decorative stones and garden statues to add visual interest to the side of your house. This approach is low-maintenance and provides a sophisticated look.
Place statues strategically among the stones to create focal points that draw the eye.
7. Herb Garden
A small herb garden can be both functional and attractive. Plant herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage, are not only low-maintenance but also useful in the kitchen. Use raised beds or containers to keep the herbs organized and easily accessible.
8. Artificial Turf
For a green look without much maintenance, install artificial turf. It provides the appearance of a lush lawn without the need for watering, mowing, or fertilizing. This is a great option for low-maintenance landscaping ideas for the side of the house.
Also read: How Long Does Artificial Turf Last?
9. Outdoor Seating Area
Create a cozy seating area with outdoor furniture. Use materials like metal or treated wood that can withstand the elements. Add some cushions and a small table to create a perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
10. Native Plants
Plant native species that are well-suited to your local climate and soil conditions. Native plants typically require less water, fertilizer, and care than non-native species.
Consult with a local nursery or landscaper to choose the best plants for your area.
11. Low-Maintenance Shrubs
Incorporate low-maintenance shrubs such as boxwood, juniper, or hydrangea. These shrubs require minimal pruning and can provide structure and greenery to the side of your house throughout the year.
12. Stepping Stones
Lay stepping stones to create a charming walkway. Stepping stones are easy to install and maintain, and they can be placed directly on the soil or within gravel. This path will lead visitors through the space without damaging the plants.
13. Rain Garden
A rain garden can help manage runoff and add beauty to the side of your house. Plant water-tolerant species like ferns, sedges, and swamp milkweed in a shallow depression to collect and filter rainwater. This eco-friendly solution requires little maintenance once established.
14. Raised Planters
Use raised planters to add height and interest to the side of your house. Raised planters are easier to maintain as they reduce the need for bending and weeding. Fill them with low-maintenance plants like succulents or ornamental grasses.
15. Water Feature
Incorporate a small water feature such as a fountain or birdbath. Water features add a soothing element to your landscape and can attract birds and other wildlife.
Choose a solar-powered option, like this one on Amazon (pictured ⬆) to reduce energy costs and maintenance.
16. Xeriscaping
Xeriscaping is a landscaping method that focuses on using drought-resistant plants and conserving water. This technique is ideal for low-maintenance side of house landscaping ideas.
Use plants like yucca, agave, and lavender, which thrive in dry conditions.
17. Simple Lawn Edging
Use lawn edging to create clean lines and define different areas of your landscape. Materials like brick, stone, or metal can be used to separate the lawn from flower beds or pathways, reducing the need for frequent mowing and trimming.
18. Shade-Loving Plants
If the side of your house is shaded, choose plants that thrive in low light. Hostas, ferns, and astilbes are excellent choices that require minimal care and will add lush greenery to shaded areas.
19. Container Gardening
Use containers of various sizes and shapes to create a dynamic and flexible garden space. Containers are easy to move and manage, and they can be filled with a variety of plants, from flowers to small shrubs. This approach is perfect for side of the house landscaping ideas diy enthusiasts.
20. Succulent Garden
Succulents are the epitome of low-maintenance plants. Create a succulent garden with a variety of species to add texture and color. These plants require minimal watering and care, making them ideal for busy homeowners.
Tips for Side-of-the-House Landscaping Ideas from Experts
“Incorporating native plants can significantly reduce maintenance needs. They are adapted to the local climate and soil, making them more resilient and less dependent on extra water and fertilizers,” John Green, Green Gardens Landscaping.
“Don’t forget to plan for proper drainage. Ensure that water flows away from your home’s foundation to prevent damage. Raised beds and rain gardens can help manage water runoff effectively,” Emily White, White’s Landscaping Solutions.
“Consider the mature size of plants when planning your landscape. This will prevent overcrowding and reduce the need for frequent pruning and maintenance,” Michael Brown, Brown’s Landscaping Design.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are some low-maintenance plants for the side of the house?
A: Some low-maintenance plants include hostas, sedums, ornamental grasses, and succulents. These plants require minimal watering and care, making them ideal for side yard landscaping.
Q: How can I create a low-maintenance garden on the side of my house?
A: Use ground cover plants, mulch, and drought-resistant plants. Incorporate features like gravel pathways and raised planters to reduce maintenance efforts.
Q: What is the best ground cover for a low-maintenance landscape?
A: Creeping thyme, ajuga, and periwinkle are excellent ground cover options. They spread quickly, suppress weeds, and require little water and maintenance.
Q: How do I ensure proper drainage in my side yard landscaping?
A: Ensure that the ground slopes away from your house to direct water away from the foundation. Use raised beds and rain gardens to manage water runoff effectively.
My Closing Thoughts on Side of the House Landscaping Ideas
You do not have to be an expert to transform the side of your house into a beautiful, low-maintenance space. With these side of the house landscaping ideas, it will take you a few weeks to turnaround your yard into a lovely paradise, that your family will enjoy living in.
From gravel pathways to vertical gardens, there are plenty of options to suit your style and needs.
By choosing the right plants and materials, and incorporating expert tips, you can create a stunning landscape that requires minimal upkeep. Embrace these ideas and enjoy a side yard that’s both functional and attractive.