Tenant's Landscaping Dilemma
A Reddit user recently turned to the r/Landscaping community for guidance on improving their rental property's backyard in Oklahoma City. The individual explained their landlord has given permission for yard modifications, but they're hesitant to invest heavily since they plan to move within a couple years.
"We want to do some landscaping. The landlord is totally cool with us doing pretty anything to the yard. The problem is that we do not want to do anything too costly, as it wouldn't make sense if we are moving out within a year or two," the Redditor shared in the post.
Community Response
After sharing photos showing sparse grass and a central tree, the renter mentioned considering mulch with landscaping fabric as a potential solution. However, community members strongly advised against this approach.
"It destroys life in the soil, doesn't prevent weeds from germinating on top and poking through, and degrades quickly leaving microplastic trash all over the yard that'll never come out. Woodchip mulch and native wildflower seeds would be my vote," suggested one commenter.
Another user simply stated: "Yeah, it's terrible. 0/10 do not recommend."
Alternative Approaches
Experts note that while landscaping fabric might initially suppress weeds, it can damage soil health by restricting water and air movement, potentially stressing plant roots. As a more sustainable option, incorporating native plants offers multiple benefits including reduced water needs, minimal maintenance requirements, and natural resilience to local climate conditions.
These eco-friendly approaches can help prevent soil erosion and manage stormwater runoff, particularly valuable in areas experiencing heavy rainfall. The discussion highlights how renters can enhance outdoor spaces without significant financial commitment or environmental harm.
