No Mo' Mow - Grass Alternatives

Mowing takes up a huge chunk of time and seems like such a waste of resources. I was told that dutch clover is a good alternative to grass. Any other good ground covers or alternatives to grass? Thanks.

~~~On the other hand, our grass is wonderful.

I mow the grass three times a day. I have it in rotation, so each area has grown to 5" or more, before its next cutting. Every blade of grass I mow goes to the milk cows. Because it is always young and lush and green, it makes much better feed for the cows than dry hay. Better than even pasture grass because they walk less browsing, and get best quality forage easier. So they produce more milk. Our cows are happy, and our yards properly mowed. And there is no waste. -Plus, our pastures are eaten less, so they last longer into winter. All-in-all, it's rather meditative for me. It's pleasing to have every inch of our farm into production, growing lots of food for many people. We have so many fruit trees and berries of all kinds. With lots of gardens. And grass and Dutch white clover mix that is such a good and helpful crop for us.

Hi Paul,
My first thought is to simply let the grass grow into a meadow. No work, and there probably are a whole lot of plants besides just grass to grow up as well. Even if it is just grass... long grass that is allowed to grow and produce seed is more useful and less work.

I don't know what climate you are in, but there are many low growing herbs (thyme, mint, etc). You could do some lowbush blueberries in a cold and acidic climate. How about a meadow mix of wildflowers for you area?

Clover may be a great choice.

Have you thought about planting "No Mow" grass, some native grasses that do not need to be mowed?

I would suggest planting low-growing native grasses like these conservation grasses.  Buffalograss, Curly Mesquite, and Blue Grama.  Planting these three together might work.