4 of 18

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

the liner and arranged them so that when they were opened the gravel would cover all of the liner. All we had to do then was split each bag and release the gravel. The final job was to spread the gravel until it was nice and even, with a garden rake turned the other way around, so that the flat surface spread the gravel.

We finished the job by edging the area with small, stone walling which matched well. We then tackled our large border which runs along our garden path and dug it well. We planted two buddleias, two hydrangea bushes, a piracantha, a large rose bush and various bedding plants. We also planted the area around the pond. Near here we had left a small area which we then dug and planted a lavender bush. Here we also erected an arch over the path and planted two climbing roses.

So was all this work a success?

You bet it was. We have two rescue dogs now and it easy to clean the gravel after them. The gravel can be hosed and only requires an occasional rake to smooth out the surface again. The liner has worked well and was worth the money, as it has stopped any weeds growing and appearing through the gravel. The gravel is not too hard and sharp for birds and frogs and this year our pond was busier than ever. Bees and butterflies love the lavender and the buddleias. We have invested recently in a stone bird bath which stands easily on the gravel and is regularly used by local bird-life.

We are now considering doing something similar with our front garden but have not quite decided what to do. We do not want to just block pave or concrete the area as we still want a garden. However there are lots of alternatives. There are various types of gravel or you could plant a chamomile lawn which needs very little attention. Then again you could just dig the earth and fill the garden with rose bushes or whatever takes your fancy. One thing we will have to leave in our garden is the fir tree which is really a bit too large for the space. The problem is each Spring the blackbirds nest in it and have plenty of babies. As a compromise each year Hubby prunes this tree and keeps its growth under control.

I hope this article has given you some ideas at the alternatives available to you instead of having a traditional lawn. You could reduce the work by employing someone to do it for you or use high powered tools but you cannot beat that satisfying feeling which you get, when you complete a project that you have done completely by yourself. Many of the alternatives to a traditional lawn are almost maintenance free, better for the environment and your time, money and health. However please take into account the creatures which may inhabit your garden and try to build your plans around accommodating them. The bonus then is that your garden will be a much better place, in every sense, by doing this. A good idea is to invest in a cheap water butt and some sort of composter, when you are doing all this work, so that your garden will become totally environmentally friendly also.

Learn more about this author, Ethel Smith.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about How to get rid of your green, energy-consuming lawn?
We want to hear your view. Write now!