I have a small approximately 12' x 12' front yard with a beautiful mature Japanese maple tree off to the right side. My grass looks good up until July, when it becomes a brown spotty mess. I would like to "lose the lawn" but still be able to use the space (I have 2 grandchildren who like to play outside). I live in Southern NYS and would love to use native plants and ground cover in my landscape. (Please excuse my very old photo which was taken during massive renovations, inside & out!) Thanks.