The top low-maintenance grass alternatives for our gardens

'There are many practical and environmental reasons to opt out of a manicured lawn,' says Home of the Year winner Jennifer Sheahan

The patio area in Jennifer Sheahan's home in Rathmines, Dublin. Pictures: Moya Nolan

I’m far from the right person to advise on gardening, but I can talk endlessly about topics that don’t involve keeping green things alive. I have artificial grass in my garden and I love it. Even if I were green-fingered, my garden is just too small to deal with grass — I mean where would I store a lawnmower in my tiny cottage? 

There are endless practical and even environmental reasons to opt out of a perfectly manicured lawn. Whatever yours may be, here are some of the best alternatives available to you.