Y’all, my dogs have DESTROYED our backyard. It gets so bad in the winter and spring but beyond the mess, I’m worried about erosion and subsequent foundation damage. The W/SW corner of the yard is nothing but dirt. It’s in shade most of the summer because of the giant oak over there.
I’d like to knock two birds out with one stone – plant something better for the environment and something much hardier than grass. We are in zone 6b and very Midwest. Any advice or recommendation? I’ve included pictures of the yard and the most concerning areas.
by Crying_in_theCar
7 Comments
Mini Clover! Tread resistant and grows and spreads quick.
Not much if anything will survive the dogs. You’ll have to keep them off of it completely until it’s established and then limit their time on it afterwards especially when wet or you’ll be right back here again in no time. Animals confined to a small space without supervision are just generally destructive.
If you’re wanting the best for the environment and the least amount of care, head over to the native gardening sub, or better yet, facebook groups specific to your region for better suggestions on specific plants.
I’m nowhere near you but just about everywhere has a native sedge that is good for planting under trees if you’re willing to devote some patches to letting the grass grow taller and flopping over.
I have dogs and propped up a temp fence to do it in two parts. You might need to consider something like that especially if you’re wanting to do seed.
Would you consider astroturf? And it drains well. Might be helpful with dogs.
That tree is killing you. I have a beautiful oak in my front yard. they drink everything in the ground. You’ll be best off with clover mix. A lot of people considered it a weed but it works and could also help with moss.
Mulch. 3 inches will do. Twice a year keeps the mud to a minimum, and as it decomposes it will feed the tree and build topsoil which will in turn be easier to get other plants to thrive.
How large are your dogs?