Native Grass Landscaping at Carnes

July 23rd, 2020

Planting with native grasses is a growing practice for home landscapes, and it’s also increasingly being used (and in some cases mandated) by municipalities and planned communities. It’s a practice that was adapted for some areas here at Carnes Crossroads several years ago.

Although it takes longer to establish than traditional turf grass, the long-term benefits make native grasses a superior solution for common areas from an environmental and maintenance perspective.

In time, the results are intended to be both striking, cost-effective and environmentally-friendly.

The reasons for sowing expansive common areas with native grass rather than turf grass are numerous:

• Native grasses like the lovegrass used in areas throughout Carnes only require mowing once a year, drastically reducing the ongoing costs for maintenance.
• Native grasses require less chemical applications, making them an environmental and cost effective choice.
• Lovegrass and other native grasses require much less irrigation than turf grass.
• The grasses and native plants used in these areas have pollinator benefits, attracting bees and supporting a natural habitat for birds, butterflies and beneficial insects.
• Native grasses help with improved erosion control, particularly important for our lake banks here.
• The use of native grasses contributes to improved water quality in our lakes and ponds due to the reduction of chemicals and introduced nutrients.
• The native grass landscaping at Carnes will flower at different times of the year, providing added beauty and interest.

Achieving the desired look of landscaping using native grass can take more than one growing season,  so it’s important to be patient. In the long run, it’s a striking look that our community and others will find is an excellent solution for creating beautiful and environmentally sound common areas.