Are you responsible for the maintenance of a high-traffic commercial property like a park, school, retail center, council property or industrial area?
Zones like these need clever landscaping designs and implementations so they can take heavy foot traffic; deal with Perth’s harsh summers; but require only minimal maintenance.
Choosing the right plants and turf can go a long way to creating the durability and the vibe that you want your visitors, customers and community to experience - while minimising cost and effort. Perth’s long dry summers bring drought resistance and water efficiency into the equation too.
The Best Turf for High-Traffic Areas in Perth
1. Buffalo (e.g. Sir Walter)
Why we like it: Buffalo grass is a hardy, low-maintenance option that thrives in Perth’s warm climate. It’s tolerant of foot traffic, self-repairs quickly, and performs well in both sun and shade.
Care tips: Buffalo requires occasional mowing, and thrives on deep watering during the hot dry summer months.
2. Kikuyu
Why we like it: Known for its rapid growth and self-repairing qualities, Kikuyu grass is ideal for sports fields, parks, and other heavily used spaces.
Care tips: Ensure regular mowing and proper edging to prevent Kikuyu from spreading into areas where you don't want it.
3. Zoysia
Why we like it: Zoysia grass offers excellent drought tolerance and durability, while still maintaining its soft texture. It’s perfect for areas that experience the combination of heavy use and long hot summers.
Care tips: This turf style requires less frequent mowing and fertilisation compared to most other grasses.
4. Couch Grass (e.g. Wintergreen or Santa Ana)
Why we like it: Couch grass is a cost-effective option for large commercial spaces. It handles foot traffic well and has excellent drought tolerance.
Care tips: Couch prefers full sun, and needs occasional dethatching to prevent buildup.
Need help deciding which turf to install?
Installing new lawn is a significant investment, and many of our commercial clients are unsure about which turf to select. We've written a handy guide that compares three of these popular types of lawn turf, and looks at their respective pros and cons: Read the article here.
The Best Plants for High-Traffic Commercial Areas
1. Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos)
Why we like it: This iconic Australian plant is drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and adds a splash of vibrant color to landscapes.
Ideal application: Great for garden beds bordering pathways or parking areas.
2. Lomandra
Why we like it: Lomandra is a tough, grass-like plant that thrives in a variety of conditions. It’s perfect for creating low-maintenance, high-impact landscapes.
Ideal application: Use as ground cover or edging along high-traffic zones.
3. Pigface (Carpobrotus glaucescens)
Why we like it: This succulent ground cover is hardy, drought-resistant, and spreads quickly, making it ideal for erosion control.
Ideal application: Best for large open areas or embankments.
4. Bottlebrush (Callistemon)
Why we like it: These native shrubs are low-maintenance, attract pollinators, and can serve as natural barriers or visual features.
Ideal application: Perfect for planting in rows along pathways or near parking lots.
5. Agapanthus
Why we like it: Well-known for its resilience and striking blooms, Agapanthus is well-suited for decorative borders and garden beds in high-traffic areas.
Ideal application: Plant in fairly tight clusters for a lush and polished look.
Final Thoughts
Let me leave you with a couple of final design tips for your high-traffic commercial or industrial outdoor areas:
Hardscaping Integration: Use pathways, thoughtfully-placed stepping stones, and mulch to redirect foot traffic to where you want it (and away from where you don't!). This can also reduce wear on adjacent grassed areas.
Mulching: Always apply mulch around plants to retain moisture, particularly important in Perth’s long, dry summers.
Irrigation Systems: Install efficient irrigation systems such as drip irrigation to reduce water usage and ensure consistent hydration. This can be 'set and forget'.
Crafted Gardens are your local Perth landscaping experts. Get in touch today!