Moving to a new area with a homeowners association can be a difficult adjustment. When done well, HOAs can help resolve disputes between neighbors and preserve property values.
However, many homeowners who live in an HOA have reported that the HOA has more interference in their personal home decisions. HOAs can deny green upgrades for seemingly arbitrary reasons.
A homeowner who was new to gardening was surprised when his homeowners association asked him to remove weeds from his front yard. Unsure how to proceed, they posted to r/landscaping asking for advice.
“HOA says I have weeds. What exactly do I need to get rid of here? I don't have much experience with lawn care,” the OP asks.
The attached pictures show a small patch of overgrown grass. There is also some grass peeking through the sidewalk. Some commenters concluded that it was likely bermudagrass, which is an invasive species.
Landscaping material is a common choice for ridding a garden of weeds. However, they are usually made of plastic or other non-biodegradable materials. Non-biodegradable materials release microplastics into the soil and local water supplies.
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It is recommended to use cardboard or hemp. These options do not release chemicals or microplastics and are far cheaper or even free. Natural fibers are also more permeable to water, air and other nutrients, making them a healthier option for soil.
Once the invasive species is eradicated, the homeowner is recommended to revegetate their yard. Plants such as native species, buffalo grass or clover require less maintenance, reduce their utility bills and attract pollinators.
Redditors didn't like the HOA's comments and supported the OP with advice on eco-friendly lawn care.
“Most likely they are referring to the grass you had growing in the garden bed. Just cover the grass with cardboard and put mulch on top of the cardboard,” one Reddit user advised.
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“My favorite day at work was pulling fabric out from under weed-infested old wood chips and using it to remove 99% of the weeds (including roots),” one commenter shared.
Another commenter replied, “I'm going to do this next spring…with the fabric I discarded. Worst idea ever.”
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