Cheap Garden Ideas to Replace or Cover Up Unsightly Grass

Alexis Jul 25, 2026
Cheap Ways to Cover Dirt in Backyard
Cheap Ways to Cover Dirt in Backyard

Are you tired of looking at a lush, green lawn that's eating into your wallet? Or perhaps you're an environmentally conscious homeowner seeking alternatives to traditional grass? If so, you're in luck – there are numerous cheap garden ideas to cover grass that can save you money, reduce your carbon footprint, and add some visual flair to your outdoor space.

Cheap Ways to Cover Dirt in Backyard
Cheap Ways to Cover Dirt in Backyard

From low-maintenance groundcovers to decorative mulch, the options are endless. In this article, we'll delve into the world of affordable garden ideas that can transform your lawn into a stunning, eco-friendly oasis.

Best Ground Cover That Loves To Be Walked On
Best Ground Cover That Loves To Be Walked On

Low-Cost Groundcovers

Groundcovers are an excellent way to cover grass without breaking the bank. These low-maintenance plants are perfect for areas with poor soil quality or limited sunlight. Some popular options include:

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12 Simple DIY Budget Backyard Makeover Projects That Transform Fast

Creeping Thyme

Creeping thyme is a fragrant, spreading groundcover that's perfect for areas with poor soil quality. It's also deer-resistant and can thrive in full sun or partial shade. This groundcover is relatively inexpensive, with prices starting at around $2 per plant.

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12 Low Budget Backyard Designs with Gravel

When planted correctly, creeping thyme can spread quickly, making it an excellent choice for large areas. It's also a great option for areas with poor drainage, as it can tolerate wet conditions.

Wild Violets

Wild violets are a beautiful, low-maintenance option for covering grass. These delicate flowers are perfect for areas with partial shade and well-drained soil. Prices for wild violets start at around $3 per plant.

a man kneeling down next to some rocks in the grass with words written on it
a man kneeling down next to some rocks in the grass with words written on it

Wild violets are also a great choice for areas with poor soil quality, as they can thrive in a variety of conditions. They're also an excellent option for areas with heavy foot traffic, as they can withstand wear and tear.

Decorative Mulch

Decorative mulch is a cost-effective way to cover grass while adding a pop of color to your outdoor space. There are numerous options available, including:

10 Cheap Ways to Cover Dirt in Your Backyard
10 Cheap Ways to Cover Dirt in Your Backyard

Wood Chips

Wood chips are a popular choice for decorative mulch, offering a natural, earthy look. They're also relatively inexpensive, with prices starting at around $2 per bag.

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Quick Growing Ground Cover That Chokes Out Weeds
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Drought Tolerant Garden Ground Covers That Outcompete Weeds
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15 Walkable Ground Cover Grass Alternatives
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24 Year-round evergreen groundcovers for the garden | Garden Design
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When used correctly, wood chips can help retain moisture in the soil, reduce erosion, and suppress weeds. They're also a great option for areas with poor soil quality, as they can help improve drainage.

Straw Mulch

Straw mulch is another affordable option for covering grass. It's made from dried straw and is perfect for areas with poor soil quality or limited sunlight. Prices for straw mulch start at around $3 per bag.

Straw mulch is also an excellent choice for areas with heavy foot traffic, as it can withstand wear and tear. It's also a great option for areas with poor drainage, as it can help absorb excess water.

Transforming your lawn into a stunning, eco-friendly oasis doesn't have to break the bank. By exploring affordable garden ideas, such as low-cost groundcovers and decorative mulch, you can save money, reduce your carbon footprint, and add some visual flair to your outdoor space. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a DIY enthusiast, there's a cheap garden idea to cover grass that's perfect for you.