As a keen gardener there is nothing more tranquil than a neatly kept or manicured lawn. I personally attend to my lawn which is of average size and can keep me quite busy during summer time. But the result and joy and pride are indescribable.
Unfortunately, due to the climate of the region where I am living the only real lawn that is suitable for my garden is Kikuyu grass. However, I have done some reading about different types of grass for a lawn and it is interesting that you can also grow a herb lawn.
There are especially three types of herbs that are mostly suitable for a lawn:
1. Camomile makes an excellent lawn but the variety Anthemis nobilis should be used. The reason is that it is a hardy type of plant that can be kept green and lively in hot weather. It is also hardy enough for the normal wear and tear any lawn should endure; meaning walking on it and even picnicking on it. Unfortunately it is not hardy enough for practicing sports on it. It is best for sandy soil but will grow in other types of soil too, except for clay soil.
2. Thyme is also suitable for lawn and here it is the variety Thymes serpyllum. This is the smallest and hardiest of the thyme family but it makes a nice fragrant carpet rather than a strong lawn to walk or picnic on. It is therefore only for the show and it is best to grow in a special corner of your garden with no traffic. It must be kept well watered and weeded.
3. The third herb that is suitable for a lawn is pennyroyal (Mentha requieni). Like the first part of its scientific name hints, it is one of the smallest of the mint family and like thyme, it is not that strong enough to bear much traffic but it can give you much joy and beauty.
The nitty-gritty of this type of lawn is that it is more for the aesthetic than a work-horse.
Hendrik DB de Villiers
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