“Green landscaping” — also called eco-friendly or sustainable landscaping — is a way to make small changes in your backyard that will help protect our environment. While it may sound difficult or complicated, this kind of landscaping will actually save you time, money and energy down the road.
Our lawn care specialists in the Tri-Cities area who are experienced with sustainable landscaping practices have compiled the following list of simple, affordable steps you can take to make your yard more eco-friendly:
Choose native plants
Plants provide curb appeal, and they also provide cover for beneficial wildlife, birds, butterflies and pollinator bees. When choosing plants to adorn your yard, always look for those that are native to your specific region. Native plants are naturally acclimated to your area’s climate, rainfall, pests and diseases. Being so hardy, they require very little maintenance once established.
Cut less, mow more
The taller your grass grows, the deeper the roots. But grass that’s allowed to grow too high can become a breeding ground for weeds, pests and diseases. Mow the grass only when it’s dry, and keep it at least 2-3 inches long. This will require you to mow more frequently, but the benefits are worth it for your lawn and the environment. Leave cut grass clippings in the lawn. Grass clippings are primarily water. They’re also rich in nitrogen and will help keep moisture in the soil.
Compost
If grass clippings left on the lawn is bothersome to you, add them to a compost pile. Composting reduces garbage like newspapers, cardboard, eggshells and fruits and vegetable peels, and it turns them into beneficial, nutrient-dense fertilizer for lawns and gardens. Start a compost bin outside by heaping soil in a partly sunny spot, add compost items and turn the soil occasionally to help with decomposition. Weeds and wood chips can be thrown in the compost pile, too.
Collect rainwater
Receptacles like rain barrels are designed to catch rainwater from gutters to use in watering flowers, gardens and plants. This will reduce the amount of outdoor water you need to use.
Plant wildflowers and rain gardens
When Life gives you rain, plant a rain garden! Anywhere that rainwater repeatedly pools in your lawn is the perfect place for a rain garden. Using flood-resistant, native plants, these gardens can absorb lots of rainwater and filter out pollutants. While you’re planting a rain garden, find a spot or two in your yard to grow wildflowers that attract beneficial pollinators.
Make your lawn eco-friendly and sustainable
Promier Landscapes in the Tri-cities area has helped people like you create and maintain beautiful, eco-friendly lawns and landscapes for two decades. For more information, call (423) 872-2988, or contact us online.