Low-Maintenance, Drought-Resistant Lawns by:Jill Kipnis

According to a NASA study on lawns, approximately 50

,000 square miles of grass covers the U.S, which the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) estimates accounts for one third of Americans' water usage. In addition, 95 percent of the 50,000 square miles of greenscape consists entirely of thirsty bluegrass. Although there are numerous environmentally-conscious alternatives to grass lawns like xeriscaping or rock gardens, there are also many types of low-maintenance, drought-resistant grasses available for those who insist on having a green lawn. Here are just a few to choose from:

Bahia grass: This is an ideal choice for infertile soil. It grows very coarse and thick and needs a lot of sunlight. It grows best in warm humid regions, specifically Florida.

Bermuda grass: Bermuda soaks up the sun and responds well to watering. It responds well to traffic, but needs to be mowed frequently. This grass is adapted to tropical and subtropical climates.

Buffalo grass: This midwest prairie native needs full sun exposure. It does not do well with heavy traffic, but can tolerate cold weather well. Most varieties are drought resistant.

Fescues: These are cool season grasses that do well in northern climates. It is shade tolerant and absorbs water well after drought.

St. Augustine grass: This robust grass is adapted to moist, coastal areas with high summer temperatures and mild winter temperatures. It tolerates moderate shade along with a wide range of soil types.

Zoysia grass: Zoysia is very flexible and durable, while having the ability to tolerate traffic. It grows slowly, but does well in the sun or shade. It adapts particularly well along the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts.

Before making the switch, research how these grasses would survive in the climate you live in. Also, wait until fall or spring to make any big changes to your yard.

Limiting the use of residential lawn sprinklers is another environmentally-friendly tactic you can easily adapt to. See how water restrictions have proven effective in Los Angeles, CA.

Check out Move.com's Home & Garden section for more gardening tips.

About the author

Moving is an exciting and stressful time. Whether you're moving for a new job opportunity, to be nearer to friends and family, or merely to trade up in your own area, there are so many options and details to consider. Should you rent or buy a previously owned home or a new home currently being built? How will you finance the purchase? Maybe you're concerned about schools, crime, or just wondering how you should decorate your new rooms. With Move.com, you can find all you need in one place. We provide detailed real estate listings, including new homes for sale, apartments for rent, and a wealth of resources on moving, finance, rentals, and more. Move.com makes finding real estate simple and easy by providing you with a quick and easy solution to searching for multiple homes for sale and apartments for rent in thousands of regions across the U.S., and it's all available through Move.com.

POST COMMENT

You Too, Can Care For Those Bonsai Trees by:Christine McKinnon Advantages to a Gas Fireplace by:Dave Roth How to Choose a Wood Pellet Stove by:Dave Roth Things to Consider When Buying Cafe Furniture by:Jane Taylor Selecting the Right Tools for the Kitchen by:Jane Taylor Save on Used Office Furniture and Used Cubicles by:Jason Berk Scrap Off Excess Tile Adhesive Between Tiles by:Jason Colling Guidelines To Restore Chipped Granite Worktops by:Jason Colling How To Proceed Towards Shower Wall Tiles Installation? by:Jason Colling Limestone Tiles - The Most Unique Decoration by:Jason Colling Granite Worktops - Gives a beauty to your Kitchen by:Jason Colling Finding Your Dream Home- Step Two: Working Efficiently with Your Buyer's Agent by:Spencer Mason Hot Tubs - Would you an Air Blower by:John Lewis