While lawns typically comprise at least some part of the landscape, for aesthetic reasons or recreational purposes, they require large amounts of water and present environmental challenges. Taking a few measures with our lawns can produce meaningful positive results when it comes to health and sustainability.
The conventional way of maintaining our lawns results in environmental and health hazards. Traditional lawn care requires large amounts of water and chemicals and releases pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions. However, using electric lawn equipment and transitioning to more sustainable practices makes a significant difference and helps mitigate the impact of climate change.
Mow every other week, or only when the grass is high, around 4 inches. Mowing higher contributes to root growth, making for healthier, more drought tolerant grass and establishing a grub tolerant lawn. It also helps to control weeds by shading the soil surface.
Dull lawnmower blades will leave rough edges and cause your grass to need more water. As a bonus: sharper blades can reduce fuel consumption by up to 30 per cent.
Mulching leaves and grass clippings into the lawn adds nutrients to the soil and creates a better soil structure, which improves drainage and encourages deep roots. This is better for the plant and better for carbon storage.
Monocultural lawns require more resources to protect from pests, diseases and drought and they provide little to no food for wildlife. Instead, use seed mixes adapted to your lawn’s soil and climate conditions and consider adding low flowering native plants like puss*toes, violets or clover.
There are many alternatives to lawn. Consider transitioning a part of your lawn to: native grasses; native trees and shrubs; ground covers; a flowering meadow; a food garden; a xeriscape or a rain garden. Not only are these beautiful and functional alternatives, they also help mitigate climate change.
Eco-friendly grass alternatives are those that thrive with: Less watering. Little or no mowing. Few or no fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. Minimal damage to the soil, water table, and air.
Ground cover hugs the ground and requires little to no mowing, no additional watering, and no pesticides or herbicides. For shady areas, moss makes a beautiful lawn. Moss is green even in the high heat of summer, and feels wonderful under bare feet. Clover is an excellent groundcover for lawns in full sun.
The key to a healthy lawn is growing it in soil with plenty of organic matter and alive with microorganisms. Apply a thin layer of weed-free compost over the lawn in the spring and in the fall. Water gently to help the nutrients and microbes migrate into the soil.
Good news, cutting the grass less may be better for the environment. Trimming the number of times you run the mower around the yard, known as “low mow”, can help reduce carbon emissions, build soil organic matter and even enhance pollinating habitats for bees.
Sustainable gardening combines organic gardening practices with resource conservation. Generally, sustainable gardening: is forward-thinking. values ecosystem support. makes as little negative impact on the earth as possible.
Sustainable land-management practices such as conservation tillage, cover cropping, and crop rotation can improve soil health by reducing erosion, increasing organic matter, and enhancing soil structure. These practices increase soil fertility, improve water infiltration, and reduce soil degradation.
Many sustainable gardeners champion native plants for growing lush gardens that attract local wildlife and maximize the environmental benefits of gardening. If you choose non-native plants, look for diverse, drought-resistant perennials to reduce water consumption and end-of-season yard waste.
Address: 747 Lubowitz Run, Sidmouth, HI 90646-5543
Phone: +99513241752844
Job: Design Supervisor
Hobby: Digital arts, Lacemaking, Air sports, Running, Scouting, Shooting, Puzzles
Introduction: My name is Delena Feil, I am a clean, splendid, calm, fancy, jolly, bright, faithful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
We notice you're using an ad blocker
Without advertising income, we can't keep making this site awesome for you.
