Suggestions for a problem yard?

[Tyler McDonald]

Hi all, I have a SFH with a backyard that is extremely shaded after years of tree growth behind the property. The trees are not encroaching on my property but they shade to the point that no grass will grow and consequently the yard is a sandy dirt pit which erodes every time it rains. Taking out trees or thinning is not an option so I am looking for a simple ground cover solution that won't require a bunch of TLC from the tenants. Mulch or pine straw ground cover are possible options but require ongoing expense to replenish. I'm also considering some sort of gravel that might be a one time application.

Looking for suggestions or thoughts anyone may have.  Thanks!

[Hayden Albert]

@Tyler McDonald hey Tyler, if you are considering grass options I’d give Supersod a call and see what they suggest. If not the gravel/stone idea has a few things to consider. With stone it can be hard to keep debris out of it. So all those leaves or runoff with turn your nice pretty stone right back into a weed filled sand pit if not properly maintained. Where as something cheap like pine straw will require yearly maintenance but it will be very affordable. Something like mulch will float away and become a disaster after the first heavy rain. If you can fix the soil and runoff issues you might have better luck maintaining it.