This landscaping plan has lots of interest. Note that the lawn area is broken up with islands of well-mulched plantings. These islands are ideal for flowers and ground cover. Rhododendron and azaleas become focal points when in bloom.

This landscaping plan uses a magnolia tree as the focal point. Ground cover (pachysandra) is interspersed with bulb flowers such as daffodils to reduce the lawn size and importance. Maintenance is reduced whenever these islands of interest are added.

This landscaping plan has very little lawn, but features paths among the plantings and trees to create a forest walk. The lawn area provides sun for the border flowers and contrasts with the wooded area.

Rock walls are friendly toward plants and blend in well with the natural environment. Plants will grow between the cracks and other small creatures will find shade and protection here.

This landscaping uses the broad sweep of lawn characteristic of suburban homes. A swath of ivy borders the walk and the border plantings include rhododendron, white pine and those hardwood trees, like oak and hickory characteristic of New Jersey’s native forest.

Another way to break up the lawn and provide a maintenance-free area, especially on a steep slope, is to grown moss. It stays green all year and is a native plant. It requires no toxic chemicals in order to thrive.

Photos by Alice Roche