A Stunning Transformation

A Spanish homeowner has transformed their once-dead backyard into a blooming paradise — but not without concerns about maintaining this stunning new look!

The Journey Begins

Sharing their journey on the popular forum r/NoLawns, the enthusiastic gardener recounted their experience. "I bought a new house in Spain a few months ago, and the backyard soil was practically pure clay. I was determined to avoid a fake plastic lawn, so earlier this year, I discovered Lippia and decided to give it a shot."

Benefits of Lippia

Lippia, known by various names such as kurapia and frogfruit, is a resilient, low-growing flowering plant from the verbena family. The homeowner highlighted several advantages to planting Lippia in their garden – it is native to Spain, which means it thrives in local climates with minimal care. Moreover, its vibrant blossoms attract essential pollinators, making it an eco-friendly choice.

Labor-Intensive Process

The homeowner detailed the labor-intensive process of revamping their backyard. "The soil was hard and compact," they described, "so I needed to loosen it up a bit, but I didn’t have the tools to dig more than 3-4 cm. I mixed in some organic soil that I bought online and then carefully planted the Lippia one by one."

The Results

With a dash of rain and perseverance, those initially sparse Lippia plants evolved into a lush, verdant carpet, captivating anyone who glanced at the yard. "Incredible work! What an amazing effort and execution for a beginner!" praised one enthusiastic commenter.

Concerns Arise

However, the gardener’s Adam-like triumph was met with a twist as they shared a troubling update. "Some of the Lippias in the first section of the garden started turning reddish and dying slightly. It seems to be a trend, and I’m uncertain about the cause," they lamented. The homeowner expressed concern that the onset of the milder Spanish winter or the busy activity from their kids could be contributing factors.

Community Input

*Have you ever considered switching from a grass lawn to a more natural alternative? Which factor would drive your decision?* - Making it more aesthetically pleasing 🌼 - Saving money on water and maintenance 💰 - Supporting pollinators 🐝 - No way I’m ditching my lawn 🚫

Seeking Advice

"Do you have any suggestions on why the plants are reddening and if I should alter my care routine?" they inquired.

Expert Suggestions

Fortunately, Lippia has straightforward requirements. "If temperature is not an issue, perhaps you need to increase fertilization," advised one experienced gardener. "Consider using organic options like fine compost or alfalfa meal — they could work wonders for your plants."

Conclusion

With the right care and support, this vibrant oasis can continue flourishing, providing beauty for all seasons. Stay tuned as we follow this transformative journey! 🌿✨