Landscaping at a rental unit

[Carolyn Chupa]

What are everyone's experiences on landscaping at a rental unit? Any success/disaster stories? 

I recently cleared my backyard out of all weeds, mulch, rocks that were there. The previous owner neglected the backyard and now I have a fresh drawing board! I can't decide if I should go a xeriscape route or give it more curb appeal and put grass down. I know that grass is more maintenance but I feel like that appeals more to renters especially if they have pets that want to have a grass area to hang out in.

More info: I am in Denver, the backyard of the townhouse is around 300 square feet and fenced in.