I live in south Louisiana (the grass grows year round and you have to cut it every other day) and have been considering going to artificial turf. That might be an option if you like the look with out the maintenance and cost.

You might want to look at photos from the "Bring Back the Natives" garden tour. They're based in the Bay Area (Zone 8-9, depending) but have some really gorgeous native and drought-tolerant gardens.

OOOOOOh Lizzie! I'll have to puruse that site! Startchan Artificial turf isn't something that is tolerated in an historical district, but thanks for the idea. Maybe in the back yard!

@nancyjane - good luck! I've slowly converted to drought-tolerant in my front yard, but can't call it a garden yet - it's really just a hot mess right now! I'm also going to be sheet mulching this year - maybe something to consider?

Judi, too much shade in the front yard for a vege garden. We do have a cherry and peach tree in the back yard and managed to clear out a 10x20' area for 3 tomatoes, 2 peppers, a Japanese eggplant and 1 zucchini which have been VERY prolific! Beyond our dreams! (Made yet another batch of sauce today! Didn't expect any!) Might be clearing another area on the side for more food!

We moved to an historic neighborhood, so we have to be a bit careful of what out yard looks like.

Right now it's lawn, boxwood and roses. A bit formal for me! Nancy

Google "xeriscaping" and your agricultural zone number to see ideas that are locally sustainable and plants available.

mpugs- thanks