Going Green

Everyone is talking about how important it is to conserve our resources. The following 5 tips will help you manage your yard without putting a strain on the environment.

1. Organic fertilizer: You may like the results that come with fertilized plants and flowers, but synthetic fertilizer can be harmful to both the environment and people. Instead, choose a good organic fertilizer that uses things such as alfalfa meal.

2. Glass mulch: In some areas of your yard, glass mulch can add great texture and color. This glass mulch is made from pieces of recycled glass that have been tumbled until they are smooth. Glass mulch is growing in popularity because of the positive effects it has on the environment, as well as the modern look it portrays.

3. Compost: A compost pile is an easy way to recycle old food and plant matter to make a natural fertilizer. Find a location away from the traffic of your yard to add a compost pile.

4. Rain barrel: Set up rain barrels to collect and store rain water as it falls. Often, they can be placed under a rain spout to catch all that falls off of the roof. Rain water is great for watering outdoor plants.

5. Xeriscape: In some cases “going green” can actually mean giving up the green space. If plants are hard to grow in areas of your yard, rather than use a lot of water and resources to get them to grow, think of replacing them with rocks, pebbles, or glass mulch that are low maintenance.

Xeriscaping

Xeriscaping is a growing trend in our country, especially in areas that don’t get much rain. But the techniques can be used anywhere as a way to conserve water. By using xeriscaping, a homeowner can cut down on the cost they spend on water and on labor to maintain green space.

It is important to plan out your xeriscaped lawn or have a professional do it for you before you begin. You will need to take into account the different needs you have for your property, such as play areas or vegetable gardens.

You can expect a xeriscaped lawn to have some grassy areas that are smaller and better maintained than a whole property full of grass. Choose the best area for your yard to sustain grass and put the turf there.

An irrigation system that is properly installed can conserve water, and be a part of xeriscaping. Drip systems work well and get the water more precisely to the areas you want watered. Run the system in the morning or at night to prevent evaporation of the water.

One of the main components to a xeriscaped project is the use of rocks or pebbles. Areas where things are hard to grow, like under a tree or in a high traffic area, can be completely covered with pebbles. Pebbles now come in a variety of sizes and colors to meet the needs of any landscaper. Pebbles require very little maintenance and will help cut down on water usage. Overall, pebbles are a great addition to a xeriscaped yard.