Poor and rocky soils may be tough to support a lawn or perennial border but there are some low growing ground covers that may be just the ticket.  Ground covers are excellent ways to hold the soil and prevent erosion too.  As an interesting design element, ground covers can draw out a vertical accent, or encase a rose or flower border, or take the place of that high maintenance lawn areas.  Not only are low growing groundcovers excellent alternatives to lawn areas, but many offer colors from flowers, foliage, and fall color too. 

Consider some low growing groundcovers instead of that fertilizer and chemical laden grass areas.