Lawn grass substitutes
Chamomile (Anthemis nobilis) is a low-growing, dense and compact herb with finely-cut foliage. It thrives in full sun, prefers light, well-drained soil and is well adapted to planting on sunny slopes where a satisfactory stand of grass is difficult to maintain. Chamomile retains its handsome green color throughout the year. It withstands moderate use, but like grasses it is not suited to constant wear. Under such conditions, it may become shabby and die out, leaving bare, brown patches. Cut and roll once or twice a year.
Irish moss (Arenaria verna, variety Caespitosa) is a dense, compact, moss-like plant. Bright green in color, it bears tiny white flowers in the summer. It’s very hardy and prefers partial shade but will grow in full sun. Irish moss requires moist soil, well supplied with organic matter. It withstands some trampling and usually requires no clipping. If plants become lumpy in growth, thin them out occasionally. Irish moss is available at nurseries and should be spaced 6 inches apart. Plant it in small areas of partial shade where a bright green carpet fits the landscape.
Lippia canescens (L. repens) is slow-growing, mat-like and able to withstand extreme heat and dry conditions. Foliage is grayish and it bears tiny pinkish-lilac flowers during the summer. For about two months in winter, plants appear shabby and dead. L. repens tolerates any soil type, is highly drought-resistant, and grows well in sun or shade. You need not mow unless its growth becomes too vigorous. It withstands hard wear. To establish new areas, set out young plants in spring spaced 4 to 6 inches apart. Plants can spread to other areas and become difficult to eradicate. Another excellent lawn leaf, Dichondra carolinesis, was discussed in an earlier gardening column.