Low Maintenance Yard Options for a Short-Term Rental: 9 Ideas for Easy Outdoor Upkeep
BY MIKEL HUBBARD
FORMER HGTV PRODUCER | CO-FOUNDER, THE HOST CO |
OWNER, TIMES EIGHT PROPERTY & DESIGN
Maintaining a beautiful yard for your short-term rental property is not easy, but luckily, there are numerous low maintenance landscaping options and outdoor amenities that can enhance your property's appeal while minimizing maintenance requirements.
Astroturf or Fake Grass: Artificial turf offers the look of a lush, green lawn without the need for mowing, watering, or fertilizing. It requires minimal maintenance, providing a hassle-free outdoor space for your guests to enjoy. Synthetic grass is especially beneficial in areas with limited water resources or climates that make natural grass challenging to maintain.
Gravel/Rock Yard: A gravel-based or rock-based yard can actually be quite stunning in addition to being low maintenance. It requires little upkeep other than occasional raking to even out the surface and refilling with extra gravel every few years. Use gravel in designated areas such as walkways, seating areas, or as an alternative to traditional lawns for a modern and maintenance-friendly landscape.
Drought-Tolerant Plants: Choose a selection of drought-tolerant plants native to your region. These plants are adapted to local climates, requiring minimal watering and maintenance. Succulents, ornamental grasses, and native shrubs are excellent choices that add beauty and greenery while reducing water consumption. The less you have to water, the better!
Perennial Flower Beds: Create perennial flower beds with a variety of low maintenance flowering plants. Perennials come back year after year, reducing the need for replanting. Choose plants that are well-suited to your climate, such as lavender, black-eyed Susans, or salvia, which require minimal care but provide vibrant blooms.
Mulch Beds: Mulch is a versatile and low maintenance option for creating defined garden beds. It helps retain moisture, suppresses weed growth, and provides insulation to plant roots. Choose organic mulch like wood chips or bark, which will break down over time and enrich the soil.
Outdoor Firepit: Install an outdoor firepit as a focal point in your yard. Firepits provide a cozy ambiance and encourage guests to spend evenings outdoors. You can also sell the firewood in your Host Co store. It’s one of our top selling items!
Bocce Ball Court: Consider installing a bocce ball court. A bocce ball court typically consists of a leveled area with compacted gravel or decomposed granite. This feature adds a fun and interactive element to your yard without the need for constant maintenance.
Hammock Area: Set up a designated hammock area where guests can relax and unwind. Install sturdy posts or trees to hang hammocks, or consider freestanding hammock stands for convenience. This simple addition offers a tranquil space for guests to enjoy without requiring ongoing maintenance.
Rock Labyrinth or Zen Garden: Create a rock labyrinth or Zen garden as a unique and low maintenance feature. Labyrinths can be designed using various sizes of stones or pebbles, while Zen gardens often incorporate carefully raked gravel or sand. These meditative spaces require minimal upkeep and can provide a serene and calming experience for your guests.
With careful planning and smart choices, you can strike the perfect balance between a stunning landscape and minimal maintenance requirements, ensuring that your property stands out and offers a memorable stay for your guests.
MIKEL HUBBARD
is the co-founder of the Host Company. He's run a property management company in California’s high desert and has owned three Airbnbs since 2013 in Lake Tahoe, Joshua Tree and Death Valley. Mikel is a former HGTV producer and is the owner of Times Eight Property & Design, a real estate investment and interior design firm.