Quote:
Originally Posted by John Reis
I too like grass and wish I was retired and living in TV, then I would definitely keep the grass. However I only come down about twice a year for a couple of weeks and would like to reduce the maintenance and upkeep costs.
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John,
We live in a CYV and have neighbors who are not here often. Some have grass and some have none.
In my observation rock will not prevent weeds coming up or grasses returning. Perhaps it speaks to the original soil preparation- removing turf does not always remove all the roots, especially zoysia grass roots- which spread by underground runners. If a small piece of root remains, it will eventually regenerate and emerge somewhere.
We replaced our sod w/ rocks- hand tilled the soil to remove any roots, sprayed Roundup and placed pre-emergent granules before installing permeable underlayment (as we do have some plantings). I was satisfied we did a good job of it- and STILL pull grasses here as they pop up.
Weed seeds blow in and anchor among the rocks- their roots can penetrate the barrier if left unattended- it's amazing how fast they can spread. Grasses can spread from under the fence of the adjoining courtyard.
The only benefit to rocks is that you will save having to have a service mow and edge- and save on the cost of watering, if you have no plants.
It won't be maintenance free.
I regularly pull big weeds in the rock beds AND (if you hadn't thought of this) along the driveway (score lines and edges) of a few of our neighbors homes when they are away- otherwise the property looks unoccupied (or like slobs live there).
If you can get someone to check and tidy up regularly (like once a month) then you'll be happy when you come down. If not, you will come home to an immediate chore. Pulling greenery from a rock bed is not a quick job if left unattended for long.
Would hate to know that you did all the work of replacing sod, only to have the rock bed look a mess when you come down to visit.