Environmentally friendly landscaping requires techniques that are chemical-free, uses native plants, and require minimal watering, and generally contribute to the health of our ecosystem. These are a few ideas to help you get started on your green landscaping.
Slow Down Storm Water Run-off
Rain Gardens- Collect rainwater in a planted depression that will allow the water to percolate into the soil. Permeable Paving- Allows the percolation of rainwater through a paved surface. Helps collect “bad” runoff and cleansing the stormwater. Rain Barrels- Emptying your gutters into a receptacle allows the storage of water for use later. You can use this water to wash your car or water your plants and reduce the use of potable water.
Native Plantings
Use plants that are native to our region and climate. Reduces the need for watering. Reduces the need for upkeep and general maintenance.
Grass and Lawns
In general, USELESS. Turf requires an immense amount of energy and maintenance to grow. Really look at how much lawn you need. Avoid Chemical Fertilizers, Pesticides, and Herbicides End up in streams and ponds nearby, damaging aquatic life and causing algal blooms. Dogs and Cats lick their paws; Children fall down and put their faces near the ground. Birds can mistake fertilizer pellets for food. Poisons can (and will) kill the underground organisms that live in the soil that are needed for healthy soil. The more chemicals you use on your lawn, the more dependent it becomes on them. When you discontinue their use your lawn might look bad for a period of time until it recovers. Aerate your soil. This helps the water and nutrients reach your lawn’s roots.
Compost on your Property
This is very environmentally friendly because you are reducing the amount of waste you are sending to the landfill. Creates good mulch and is great for adding to your soil. Create an Additional Wildlife Habitat Use plants that attract bees, butterflies, and birds to your garden.
Reduce Use of Gasoline Powered Equipment
Lawnmowers, string trimmers, and blowers produce an enormous amount of Co2 emissions and use fossil fuels. If at all possible use manual push mowers. If not keep your gas mower in good working order by changing the oil and air filters regularly. A well-maintained engine will run cleaner, burn less fuel, and last longer. A new lawnmower will also run cleaner.
Plant Shade Trees and Shrubs
Provide habitats for birds (trees). Can cool your house by shading it. Provide and create a microclimate. Use trees and shrubs to shade windows and your roof. Can use leave for composting.