Then there’s this stuff they use to grow grass alongside highways when they install new overpasses and such. A truck comes by in the morning they spray green stuff from a tank using a thick hose to cover the bare earth with a dull green material. A day later it’s sprouting and a week later you’d swear the thick, green carpet has been there forever. If they overspray onto, say, concrete then grass will briefly grow there, too. But since concrete doesn’t supply nutrients like the earth does, that grass dies quickly. Anyway, whatever stuff that is it would probably do the trick.

You mentioned trees, too. I’ve heard it said over and over again by various landscape folks – so it must be true – that many of the trees in our community have simply outgrown their usefulness. Trees grow, and what was once nicely proportioned is now too big. The Board has planned and rehabilitated some of the common areas already, but there’s still much to be done. (Search the site for tree work related missives from the Board.) One problem is that some of the problems exist on private property and thus fall into the domain of homeowners. And that can be expensive, as you point out.

I’m no expert, but I don’t think you can just magically shrink roots. Maybe it’s time to remove or replace the tree you mention, so as to bring in some sunlight for grass and other plants? Maybe you can cut a deal with our landscapers? (See my notes on the last Board meeting.) There’s a tree service I’ve used on another property, with rates I thought to be quite reasonable, and I’ve seen them doing work here in the community for individuals. If I see you outside sometime I can give you their card. With the down economy, I’ve found prices for work like this are actually pretty good.

Good luck!