A TikTok creator is inspiring homeowners across the internet after sharing dramatic before-and-after footage of their barren yard turning into a thriving native-plant oasis. The video, posted by Trinity (@cubehousejungle) shows how much life, color, and wildlife a yard can gain when replaced with local, drought-tolerant species.
The clip opens with the before: a patchy, dusty yard of only mulch and tiny plantlings. Months later, the yard is showing some nice progress, and the after-shot about 7 months after the first planting reveals a lush native landscape filled with white sage, carpet sage, California fuchsia, and other native plants that have filled out the yard. "Our California natives front yard was first planted in February 2025," the creator wrote. "Now it's September and the growth has exploded!"
@cubehousejungle Here's the update some of you have been asking for! Our California natives front yard was first planted in February 2025. Now it's September and the growth has exploded! Here's a list of our plants: Carpet Sage White Sage Palo Verde Deer Grass Manzanita Cleveland Sage California Fushia California Sagebrush Brittlebush Yarrow (hybrid and native varieties) Lupine (RIP, they were killed by aphids) #californianativeplants #nativeplants #plantsoftiktok #frontyard #plantlover ♬ swatting at flies - ethan mcneal
The clip shows how, in less than a year, the once-empty yard is now buzzing with growth and low-maintenance beauty. Native plants are naturally adapted to local weather patterns, which means they need less watering, fertilizer, and upkeep than a traditional monoculture grass lawn.
Over time, that turns into major savings on water bills and countless hours not spent mowing, edging, or re-seeding. Homeowners looking for similar benefits can check out this guide to upgrading your yard for inspiration.
Rewilding your yard instead of sticking with turf also offers environmental wins. Native plants help build a healthier ecosystem for pollinators — the bees, butterflies, and birds that keep our food supply healthy. Even partial lawn replacements, such as mixing in clover, planting buffalo grass, or adding xeriscaping elements, can cut down on bills and maintenance.
One person asked if the wild yard had caused problems with the neighbors: "Looking at all your neighbors yards, your yard stands out."
Stay hydrated and refreshed this holiday season — without any sugar or harmful additives Nuun’s zero-sugar hydration tablets are a perfect, guilt-free way to enhance your water throughout the day. You’ll get five essential electrolytes for everyday hydration — with zero grams of sugar. Plus, Nuun tablets are certified vegan and gluten-free, and they’re the perfect size to keep in your car, purse, or anywhere you'll want a healthy, restorative drink. Learn more → |
"No complaints! My neighbors have been great!" the original poster responded.
TikTok commenters flooded the post with encouragement.
One viewer wrote: "This is a beautiful yard. Love the native plants!"
"So much prettier than grass AND it's better for the environment," another added.
There's a reason dermatologists personally use this daily moisturizing sunscreen more than any other brand Dermatologists see and understand skin at a much deeper level than the rest of us, and they know that the perfect SPF both protects and corrects your skin. That's why they trust, recommend, and personally use EltaMD more than any other brand. EltaMD's clinically tested formulas are designed with dermatologists to meet the needs of any skin type or condition. They're also designed for consistent daily wear to build long-term resilience with a moisturizing, lightweight, non-comedogenic texture — plus hyaluronic acid to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Learn more → |
A third chimed in: "Thank you so much for doing this! I'm also a *mostly* native planter and the wildlife that has came to my yard is remarkable."
|
If you were to switch from a grass lawn to a more natural option, which of these factors would be your primary motivation?
Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. |
Making it look better 🌱 
Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices — and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.
Cool Picks
