"Green" Landscaping: Helping the Environment in Your Own Yard
During times when everyone is thinking “green”, one of the easiest ways to help the environment is in one’s own yard. Adding to and changing the existing landscaping in your yard can really have a positive impact on the planet.
When picking out landscaping, choose plants that are native to your area. These plants are more adapted to the area and will be less hazardous to the ecosystem. Do some research and talk to your contractor to find the best native plants for your yard.
Reduce the amount of fertilizer you use on your grass. Chances are, your yard doesn’t need that much anyway. This will prevent your plants from being overfed, and keep runoff from entering the water system.
Limit your watering. The best way to water your plants is to give them one deep watering early each morning. This will encourage deep roots and allow less water to evaporate, causing you to have healthy plants and a much cheaper water bill!
Use trees and shrubs to help heat and cool your house. By placing deciduous trees at the south and west of the house, the leaves will provide shade during the summer while allowing the winter sun to warm the house. This will save you money on your energy bills, as well as save the use of fossil fuels for heating and cooling.
These simple steps will allow you to have a healthy, beautiful yard, while helping the environment at the same time! |