If you are looking for some simple ways you can start being more sustainable or eco-friendly, look no further than your own yard! There are SO MANY ways that you can help support Earth from just outside your house, and much of the time it is very simple. So here are some tips about having a more sustainable yard.
1. Think about natural alternatives. It’s no secret that fertilizers, weed sprays, and pest control can be incredibly harmful to the environment. These chemicals can destroy habitats, harm native species, and seep into water sources. But did you know there are ways you can help support a healthy yard without any of these things? By growing native plants and researching which plants work well together, you can help create a thriving ecosystem in your yard that will naturally deter pests, look nice, and grow happily. Even in your gardens, there are plants you can grow with your fruits and vegetables that will deter pests from eating your crops. Always make sure to use plants that are native to your area, since native plants can change from place to place. Of course, avoid invasive species – plants that aren’t native, which can spread quickly and harm local plants.
2. Ditch the grass. Most grass lawns are non-native turfgrass that require excessive amounts of water and chemicals to look nice. They become patchy, brown and damage the soil they are planted in. Why is this? Most lawns use non-native grasses that struggle in areas they don’t belong in. Because of this they require a lot of time, energy, water, and chemicals to keep them looking nice. Instead, learn about native ground cover you can use in its place. Local ground cover species like clover, mosses, and other native plants will thrive, add nutrients to the soil, require less water, and have no need for fertilizer. Much of the time they need less mowing as well. They also provide the best habitat for struggling species like fireflies! If you live in a neighborhood with strict lawn requirements, contact the HOA and speak to them about why a native species lawn is a better option.
3. Leave the leaves. Did you know many pollinators in climates with cold winters will hibernate in fallen leaves? When temperatures start to drop in the fall season and leaves build up on the ground, important pollinators like bees, wasps, and even butterfly and moth caterpillars will hibernate in fallen leaves through the winter. So in the fall, instead of shredding or putting them into bags to throw away, rake fallen leaves into garden beds, around tree bases, and in corner piles to leave them there for the winter. Pollinators will use these piles as a cozy spot for hibernating! In the spring time they will leave their leaf pile beds and look for early blooming flowers.
4. Think about composting! Composting can seem intimidating for many people. But it doesn’t have to be. Small-scale composting can help reduce the amount of trash we throw into landfills. Even when we throw biodegradable trash away, like vegetable scraps, egg shells, and other organic matter, they aren’t able to break down back into the environment because of the lack of sun, soil, and oxygen in landfills. Instead, think about investing in a small-scale composting bin, or create a space in your backyard where you can have a compost pile. When done correctly, these can break down your biodegradable trash matter and create an amazing product for you to use in garden beds! If you live in an apartment or small area without yard space, there are some indoor composting bins you can also find. If you really have no space for compost, you could even start just by keeping your vegetable scraps in the freezer to make vegetable stock!
There are so many other ways you can engage in small-scale practices in your home that help support the Earth. From unplugging appliances when they’re not in use, to adjusting your thermostat when the seasons change. When it comes to sustainability and Earth-friendly practices, most of the time they will help make your life easier, and even save you money!