Each of these substitutes are unique in their own way so there are options for every aesthetic. They're also relatively affordable and durable so they'll hold up against foot and paw traffic. They'll allow you to enjoy springtime without the allergies or the maintenance.

Photograph by Justine Hand.

Plant of mix of clover varieties to attract pollinators and to create a meadow. Eight varieties of Clover Seeds at prices starting at $5.95 per pound.

Above: Photograph courtesy of Great Garden Plants. Surprisingly nearly as rugged as ordinary grass, Blue Star Creeper ground cover is fast growing and can take heavy foot traffic. Hardy in zones 5 to 9; $7.95 for a 1-quart pot.

Above: Green Carpet Rupturewort is so-called for its abundance of tiny leaves that grow in a very low flat manner to create a dense evergreen carpet. Hardy in zones 5 to 9; $4.95 for a 3-inch pot.

Consider replacing your lawn with moss. Brooklyn-based O’Neill Rose Architects planted a mix of Irish moss (Sagina subulata) and thyme between the bluestone pavers at the edge of a swimming pool.

Consider Dichondra repens. A one-pound bag of Dichondra Seed is $17.99 from Amazon.

Above: Very drought tolerant, low-growing Elfin Thyme forms a tight solid mat of green foliage that blooms with light pink flowers in summer. A set of three 4-inch pots is $19.95 at Greenwood Nursery.

Have you considered a grass alternative for your yard? Which of the above is your favorite?

Article and Photo Source: Gardenista