As someone in the mid-west: Lawns are nice to keep out insects and weeds. Clover is also nice.

Mowing a lawn clears out flies like you would not believe.

My dirt has not been visible for almost 9 months. Milk thistle and rag weed are my bane. I don’t dare step into my front yard without overalls, gloves, and a face shield.

On the other hand, I appreciate how my 7 foot weeds provide a shade barrier to keep dirt moister and cooler, for the water table.