Creating a beautiful and functional backyard doesn’t have to break the bank. Choosing the right ground cover is a key element, and thankfully, numerous affordable options can transform your outdoor space without emptying your wallet. This guide explores the cheapest ground cover choices, analyzing their pros, cons, cost, and installation to help you make the best decision for your needs and budget.
Understanding Your Ground Cover Needs
Before diving into specific ground cover options, it’s crucial to consider your unique circumstances. What works well for one homeowner might be completely unsuitable for another. Several factors influence the ideal choice.
Assessing Your Backyard Conditions
The existing soil type significantly impacts which ground covers will thrive. Is your soil primarily clay, sand, or loam? Clay soils tend to retain water, while sandy soils drain quickly. Loam is a more balanced mixture. A soil test can provide valuable insights into its composition and pH level.
Sunlight exposure is another critical factor. Is your backyard bathed in sunlight all day, or is it mostly shaded? Some ground covers prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial or full shade. Choosing a ground cover that matches your sunlight conditions is essential for its survival and growth.
Consider the drainage in your yard. Areas prone to flooding or standing water require ground covers that tolerate wet conditions. Conversely, areas with excellent drainage benefit from ground covers that prefer drier soil.
Defining Your Backyard Goals
What do you hope to achieve with your ground cover? Are you primarily concerned with aesthetics, or do you need a functional surface for walking or playing? Do you want a low-maintenance option that requires minimal upkeep, or are you willing to invest time in regular care?
If you have pets or children, you’ll need to consider the durability and safety of the ground cover. Some options are more resistant to wear and tear than others, and some may be toxic if ingested.
Think about the overall style of your backyard. Do you prefer a formal, manicured look, or a more natural, informal aesthetic? The ground cover should complement the existing landscaping and architecture of your home.
Affordable Ground Cover Options: A Detailed Look
With your needs and goals clearly defined, let’s explore some of the most affordable ground cover options available. We’ll examine their characteristics, cost, pros, and cons.
Gravel: A Versatile and Budget-Friendly Choice
Gravel is one of the most popular and cost-effective ground cover options. It comes in various sizes, colors, and textures, allowing you to customize the look of your backyard.
Types of Gravel and Their Costs
Pea gravel, river rock, and crushed stone are common choices for landscaping. Pea gravel consists of small, rounded stones, offering a smooth and comfortable surface. River rock is larger and more varied in size, adding a natural and rustic touch. Crushed stone is angular and compacts well, providing a stable base for walkways and driveways.
The cost of gravel varies depending on the type, quantity, and location. Pea gravel typically costs between $30 and $60 per cubic yard. River rock is generally more expensive, ranging from $50 to $80 per cubic yard. Crushed stone is often the cheapest option, costing between $20 and $50 per cubic yard. Delivery charges can also add to the overall cost.
Pros and Cons of Using Gravel
Gravel offers several advantages. It’s relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and provides excellent drainage. It also helps suppress weed growth and requires minimal maintenance. However, gravel can become hot in direct sunlight, making it uncomfortable to walk on barefoot. It can also be difficult to clear snow from gravel surfaces, and it may shift or scatter over time.
Mulch: An Organic and Beneficial Ground Cover
Mulch is another affordable and popular ground cover option. It’s typically made from organic materials like wood chips, bark, or shredded leaves.
Types of Mulch and Their Costs
Wood chips are a readily available and inexpensive type of mulch. Bark mulch is more decorative and longer-lasting. Shredded leaves are a free and environmentally friendly option.
The cost of mulch varies depending on the type and quantity. Wood chips typically cost between $20 and $40 per cubic yard. Bark mulch is generally more expensive, ranging from $30 to $60 per cubic yard. Shredded leaves are free if you have access to them.
Pros and Cons of Using Mulch
Mulch offers numerous benefits. It helps retain moisture in the soil, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. As it decomposes, it adds valuable nutrients to the soil. However, mulch needs to be replenished regularly as it breaks down. It can also attract pests like termites and rodents, and some types of mulch may be flammable.
Wood Chips: A Rustic and Economical Choice
Wood chips are a readily available and economical ground cover option, often obtained from tree trimming or landscaping services.
Sourcing and Cost of Wood Chips
Wood chips can sometimes be acquired for free or at a very low cost from local tree services or municipal recycling centers. The price can range from free (for pickup) to $10-$30 per cubic yard for delivery.
Pros and Cons of Wood Chips
Wood chips are excellent at suppressing weeds, retaining moisture, and slowly releasing nutrients into the soil as they decompose. They provide a natural, rustic aesthetic. However, they can break down relatively quickly compared to other options, requiring periodic replacement. Fresh wood chips may temporarily deplete nitrogen from the soil, so consider composting them first or adding a nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Also, avoid using wood chips near structures that are susceptible to termite infestations.
Pine Straw: A Natural and Acidic Option
Pine straw, also known as pine needles, is an inexpensive and readily available ground cover, especially in areas with pine trees.
Obtaining and Cost of Pine Straw
Pine straw is often available for free if you have pine trees on your property. Otherwise, it can be purchased from nurseries or landscaping suppliers, typically costing between $3 and $7 per bale.
Pros and Cons of Pine Straw
Pine straw is excellent at suppressing weeds, retaining moisture, and providing insulation for plant roots. It decomposes slowly and adds acidity to the soil, making it ideal for acid-loving plants like azaleas and rhododendrons. However, it can be flammable and may need to be replenished periodically. It can also mat down over time, reducing its effectiveness.
Clover: A Living Ground Cover Alternative
Clover is a low-growing, nitrogen-fixing legume that can be used as a living ground cover. It’s a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional lawns.
Types of Clover and Their Costs
Microclover is a popular choice for lawns due to its small leaves and low growth habit. Dutch white clover is another common option, known for its ability to tolerate poor soil conditions.
The cost of clover seed varies depending on the type and quantity. Microclover typically costs between $5 and $10 per pound, while Dutch white clover is generally cheaper, ranging from $2 to $5 per pound.
Pros and Cons of Using Clover
Clover offers numerous advantages. It requires less mowing and fertilization than traditional lawns. It also attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. Clover fixes nitrogen in the soil, reducing the need for nitrogen-based fertilizers. However, clover can spread aggressively, and it may not be suitable for areas with heavy foot traffic. It can also be susceptible to pests and diseases.
Ornamental Grasses: A Textured and Low-Maintenance Option
While not technically a ground cover in the traditional sense, ornamental grasses can be planted densely to create a visually appealing and low-maintenance ground cover alternative.
Types of Ornamental Grasses and Their Costs
Creeping red fescue and blue fescue are popular choices for ground cover. These grasses are relatively low-growing and spread slowly, forming a dense mat.
The cost of ornamental grass varies depending on the type and size of the plants. Creeping red fescue typically costs between $3 and $5 per plant, while blue fescue is generally more expensive, ranging from $5 to $8 per plant.
Pros and Cons of Using Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses offer a unique texture and visual interest to the landscape. They are relatively low-maintenance and drought-tolerant. They also provide habitat for beneficial insects and birds. However, ornamental grasses can be slow to establish, and they may require occasional pruning to maintain their shape. They can also be susceptible to pests and diseases.
Installation Tips for Your Chosen Ground Cover
Proper installation is crucial for the success of any ground cover. Here are some general tips to follow:
Preparing the Area
Clear the area of any existing vegetation, rocks, and debris. Grade the soil to ensure proper drainage. Consider installing a weed barrier fabric to prevent weed growth.
Applying the Ground Cover
Spread the ground cover evenly over the prepared area. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates. Water the ground cover thoroughly after installation.
Maintenance
Regularly inspect the ground cover for weeds, pests, and diseases. Remove any debris or fallen leaves. Replenish the ground cover as needed.
Cost Comparison of Ground Cover Options
To summarize, here’s a general cost comparison of the ground cover options discussed above:
| Ground Cover | Cost per Cubic Yard (approximate) | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Gravel (Pea Gravel) | $30 – $60 | Versatile, good drainage |
| Gravel (River Rock) | $50 – $80 | Decorative, natural look |
| Gravel (Crushed Stone) | $20 – $50 | Inexpensive, compacts well |
| Mulch (Wood Chips) | $20 – $40 | Organic, retains moisture |
| Mulch (Bark Mulch) | $30 – $60 | Decorative, longer-lasting |
| Wood Chips | $0 – $30 | Rustic, economical |
| Pine Straw | $3 – $7 per bale | Acidic, good for acid-loving plants |
Making the Right Choice for Your Backyard
Choosing the cheapest ground cover for your backyard involves carefully considering your needs, budget, and the specific conditions of your yard. Gravel, mulch, wood chips, pine straw, clover, and ornamental grasses are all viable options, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. By carefully evaluating your options and following proper installation techniques, you can create a beautiful and functional backyard without breaking the bank.
What are the most budget-friendly ground cover options mentioned in the guide?
The guide highlights several cost-effective ground cover choices for backyards. Creeping thyme, white clover, and gravel are often cited as highly affordable options, providing good coverage without significant upfront expense. These materials are relatively easy to source and install, further reducing costs. The suitability of each depends on your specific climate, soil conditions, and aesthetic preferences.
Furthermore, wood chips and pine straw are presented as budget-friendly alternatives. They offer beneficial soil enrichment as they decompose, contributing to long-term soil health. Recycled materials, such as shredded tires or repurposed concrete, are also discussed as economical and environmentally conscious choices, although availability and appearance may vary by location.
How does the cost of ground cover compare to the cost of maintaining a traditional lawn?
Ground cover options frequently require less maintenance than a traditional lawn, translating to lower long-term costs. Lawns demand regular mowing, fertilizing, watering, and weed control, all contributing to significant annual expenses. Many ground covers, on the other hand, require only occasional weeding or pruning, and some may even thrive without supplemental watering or fertilization.
The initial investment in ground cover may sometimes be higher than the cost of establishing a lawn, especially if planting plugs or purchasing larger quantities of materials. However, the reduced maintenance needs of ground cover generally offset this initial expense within a few years. The savings in water bills, fertilizer costs, and gardening time can be substantial over the long term.
Is gravel truly a cheap ground cover option, considering the need for underlayment?
While gravel can be a relatively inexpensive ground cover material itself, the overall cost can increase when factoring in the necessary underlayment. A weed barrier fabric is essential to prevent weeds from growing through the gravel and to stabilize the gravel layer. The cost of this fabric, as well as any edging materials to contain the gravel, should be considered when estimating the total cost.
Despite the added cost of underlayment, gravel still remains a competitive option compared to other ground covers, especially in large areas. Its durability and low maintenance requirements contribute to long-term cost savings. Selecting locally sourced gravel options can further reduce expenses, making it an even more budget-friendly choice.
What are the pros and cons of using wood chips as a cheap ground cover?
Wood chips offer several advantages as a cheap ground cover, including affordability, soil enrichment, and moisture retention. They are readily available from local tree services and landscaping companies, often at a low cost or even free. As they decompose, wood chips add organic matter to the soil, improving its structure and fertility. They also help to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture, reducing the need for watering.
However, wood chips also have some drawbacks. They can attract insects, including termites, and may not be aesthetically pleasing to everyone. They decompose over time and will need to be replenished periodically. Also, certain types of wood chips, such as those from black walnut trees, can be toxic to some plants. Proper selection and application are crucial to mitigate these potential problems.
How does creeping thyme compare in cost to other living ground cover options like clover?
Creeping thyme and clover are both considered relatively inexpensive living ground cover options, but their costs can vary based on several factors. The price of seeds or plugs depends on the variety, supplier, and quantity purchased. Clover seeds are often cheaper than creeping thyme plugs, making it a more budget-friendly option for large areas. However, creeping thyme can spread more readily, potentially requiring less initial planting material.
Maintenance requirements also influence the overall cost. Clover typically requires more frequent mowing than creeping thyme to maintain a desired height and prevent it from becoming too leggy. Creeping thyme, on the other hand, might need more initial weed control to establish successfully. Considering both the upfront cost of planting material and the long-term maintenance expenses is essential for making an informed decision.
What is the cheapest way to establish a ground cover over a large area?
Establishing ground cover from seed is generally the most cost-effective method for covering a large area. While plugs or divisions offer faster coverage, the quantity needed for a large space significantly increases the initial expense. Seeding allows for broader distribution of plants, reducing the overall cost per square foot. Proper soil preparation, including weed removal and amending with compost, is crucial for successful seed germination and establishment.
Choosing a ground cover variety that readily self-seeds can also contribute to long-term cost savings. Plants like clover and certain varieties of thyme naturally spread and fill in gaps over time, reducing the need for supplemental planting. Careful consideration of the plant’s growth habits and self-seeding potential can significantly minimize future expenses.
Are there any free or extremely low-cost ground cover alternatives?
Yes, there are several options that can serve as free or very low-cost ground cover alternatives. One approach is to utilize existing resources within your yard, such as fallen leaves or pine needles, as a temporary mulch layer. While not permanent, this can suppress weeds and enrich the soil as it decomposes. Collecting these materials from your own property eliminates any purchase costs.
Another option is to propagate existing plants through cuttings or divisions. Many ground cover plants can be easily propagated, allowing you to expand your coverage without buying new plants. Sharing cuttings or divisions with neighbors and friends can also be a cost-effective way to acquire a variety of ground cover options. Freecycle and community gardening groups can be valuable resources for finding free or low-cost plants and materials.