“(He is) upset about our lawn”

A Reddit user shared that their neighbor had been peering into their unmowed lawn. They explained that blooming wildflowers and weeds don’t bother them, but that older generations seem “avidly obsessed” with frequently mowed lawns.

“This weekend I saw him mowing which I find funny since we are in a drought, gas prices are high and honestly his lawn didn’t need it,” wrote the OP. They joked that their neighbor was going to start mowing their lawn without asking and learned that they weren’t “too far away from him being upset about our lawn.”

Homeowners associations often have rigid rules regarding well-maintained lawns. Disputes within communities often arise from these norms, which can be costly and time-consuming to manage. Sometimes homeowners go so far as to opt for artificial lawns, believing that it is less work. However, less maintenance, resources and money could be spent on even more beautiful natural lawns.

By simply opting for a few native plants, nature will do the work. For homeowners who rewild their lawns, this means less effort for a beautiful lawn and less money spent on water, fertilizer and pesticides. Estimates suggest homeowners could save $225 a year on water and $100 on fertilizers and pesticides. At the same time, they support their local ecosystems by promoting natural growth, native species and pollinators and reducing the use of toxic chemicals in gardening. Improving the environment not only saves money and resources, but also supports the health and food supply of human communities.

Editors flocked to the post’s comments to express their anger at neighbors who enforce unwavering lawn rules.

“I just received a letter from my city government saying I will be charged with a misdemeanor if I don’t cut my grass and weeds,” one commenter wrote.

Another Reddit user gave a helpful tip for allowing native lawns to thrive despite government and homeowners association restrictions.

“You can certify your yard as wildlife habitat,” they said. “It can give extra weight to what you’re doing.”

To get started on creating a natural lawn, landscaping companies like Yardzen can help. Many guides, including that of Wild Ones, help create beautiful, nature-friendly and economical lawns.

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