WHAT IF YOUR CITY PAID YOU TO USE LESS WATER?
We tried creeping thyme between pavers a couple years back, and it’s been surprisingly tough. It does fill in on its own, but it took a full season before it really started to spread—first year was patchy, second year looked way better. I’ve mixed in some microclover too, since the kids and dog are always tearing things up. The clover bounces back fast after rough play and doesn’t seem to mind dry spells. Only thing is, you’ll want to keep an eye on weeds sneaking in until the groundcover gets established... that’s probably the most annoying part.
WHAT IF YOUR CITY PAID YOU TO USE LESS WATER?
Interesting you mention creeping thyme and microclover—I’ve seen those work, but I’ll admit I’m not totally sold on them for every space. In my experience, especially with high-traffic areas, they can get a bit scraggly if you don’t baby them through that first year or two. If you’re looking for something even lower maintenance, have you ever tried decomposed granite or permeable gravel between pavers?
Here’s how I usually approach it:
1. Lay down a solid weed barrier fabric (seriously, this step saves so much headache later).
2. Add a few inches of decomposed granite or gravel, tamp it down well.
3. For a softer look, tuck in some drought-tolerant succulents or blue fescue here and there—those bounce back from trampling and barely need water once established.
I get the appeal of green groundcovers, but sometimes hardscape with just a few tough plants mixed in ends up being way less work and still looks great. Plus, no mowing or constant weeding... which is a win in my book.
3.
I hear you on the hardscape approach—less fuss, less water, and honestly, blue fescue is tough as nails. I did a similar setup in my backyard a couple years back. Swapped out the thirsty lawn for gravel paths and a handful of agaves. Water bill dropped noticeably. That said, weed barrier is a must... skipped it once and spent a summer regretting it. The city paying for water savings would just be icing on the cake.
The city paying for water savings would just be icing on the cake.
I get the appeal of hardscape, but honestly, I think it can end up looking a bit sterile if you go too heavy on gravel and agaves. Plus, weed barrier isn’t always foolproof—roots find a way. I’ve had better luck mixing in native wildflowers and mulch. Cheaper upfront, and you still get that water savings without sacrificing color or vibe.
I hear you on the sterile look—my neighbor went all-in on gravel and it just feels kind of lifeless. I’m curious, though: have you had any issues with mulch attracting pests? I’ve had a few run-ins with termites when I used wood chips.