Want your yard to stand out? Try sand instead of grass.
Crisp, clean, and unexpected—it’s the perfect lawn alternative. No mowing or fertilizing, just freedom from high water bills. Natural visuals and textures and adds a real wow factor to yards and gardens.
But is it practical? Yes. Sand won’t dry out and roll away like mulch will during heavy downpours, but it does require regular raking when winds shift it around. If you want the look of grass without its demands, try artificial turf instead; it looks like real plants yet require minimal effort or upkeep.
Also, consider adding a layer of gravel or crushed stone for added contrast against lighter-colored sand; just be sure to avoid weed growth due to organic matter in the soil below the stones. Some plants, such as succulents, can work well with this type of surface but opt for slower growth varieties or hardy perennials to avoid needing replants, often in harsher climate areas where summers are hot, and winters are cold.
If you’re serious about switching to sand and giving up grass, start by removing all roots so nothing can grow back and then lay landscape fabric underneath before filling in with small pebbles or crushed stone plus your desired type of course sand (avoid play sand which compacts more over time). Make final adjustments with more uneven surfaces, sticks of wood slabs spaced between larger stones set at angles for visual interest before finishing off with furniture pieces placed throughout the space. Ultimately, you’ll have a beautiful backyard area that no one else has!