What full sun plants to replace lawn?

[Wy]

I found that kidney weed requires part shade. I need a similar plant to replace lawn in the West-South. Zoysia is too high. We need to walk on it occassionally.

[EricL]

Hello @Wy 

Thanks for sharing your question about what plant to use in part shade.

If you’re looking for a low-growing, hardy plant to replace lawn in a West-South area that still gets a bit of sun and occasional foot traffic, Dichondra repens (also known as kidney weed’s close cousin, “Kidney Creeper”) could be a great alternative. It’s an excellent groundcover option that can handle part shade while staying lush and green, and it’s available at the store. 

Dichondra grows low to the ground, spreading beautifully to form a soft, dense carpet-like cover. It’s tolerant of light foot traffic, making it perfect for spaces that aren’t used constantly but still need to be walked on occasionally.

To keep it looking its best, regular watering during establishment will help it settle in, and it doesn’t need much ongoing maintenance once established. Adding a light feed with a slow-release fertiliser like Osmocote All Purpose Controlled Release Fertiliser will encourage healthy growth without excessive height. For areas with more sun exposure, you might also want to consider Creeping Thyme as another option. It’s a resilient groundcover that stays low, tolerates light foot traffic, and adds a lovely visual element with its tiny leaves.

Both Dichondra repens and Creeping Thyme will give you a beautiful, green alternative to lawn while keeping the height low and being able to handle your occasional stroll across the area. Either would be a wonderful solution for your needs!

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Jason]

Hello @Wy,

I trust you found Eric's suggestions helpful. 

The guide How to choose ground cover for your garden by one of our most experienced members @Noelle also has loads of great advice.

Jason

[Wy]

Thanks Eric. Will look into creeping Thyme. The kidney weed is best in part shade which is not suitable.

[mich1972]

Good afternoon @Wy 

How big is the area you would like to cover? Could I please ask for a couple of photos so we can see what you would like to do. How often would you walk on the area ? 😀🌿

Creeping Thyme 

Dichondra

Pratia

Grevillea GinGin Gem

Chamomile

[Wy]

Hi Mitch

We have decided upon Myoporum yareena.

Thanks for your interest.

Wendy

[mich1972]

Great choice @Wy 🌿😀

[Wy]

We have decided upon Myoporum yareena.

Thanks for your interest.

Wendy

[Wy]

We looked at Kidney Weed but it needs part shade. Decided upon mini mondo grass.