Gardening and landscaping is a favorite pastime for many individuals. Spending time working in the dirt can be extremely therapeutic, and the end result can be enjoyed by multiple people. While working with nature seems to be an incredibly environmentally-friendly process, modern gardening techniques can actually be deceptively harmful. From toxic pesticides to the massive amounts of water some gardens require, gardening can hurt the environment in many different ways. Fortunately, with the right tools and techniques, maintaining your lawn doesn’t have to be in direct opposition to green living.
One of the primary concerns with maintaining a perfectly manicured lawn and garden is the amount of energy it takes to groom the area. Most lawn mowers run on gasoline-powered engines, with contribute to noise and air pollution, in addition to using a non-renewable resource. One of the most environmentally-friendly alternatives to the gas-guzzling mowing machine is a lawn mower known as a reel mower. These mowers are entirely powered by the muscle power of the individual using them. Thus, a reel mower is very quiet, and leaves no carbon footprint. The solution is not practical for everyone, however. Individuals with large lawns may want to consider other alternatives, including electric-powered lawn mowers.
Water conservation is another issue that can be difficult to maneuver around when landscaping. Water is an essential ingredient to a healthy and happy lawn, as no matter what your lawn is filled with, those plants need water. Many landscapers have begun cutting down on water usage with a trend known as xeriscaping. In xeriscaping, plants that have similar water needs are placed together on the lawn. Many xeriscapers also use plants that don’t need large amounts of water, such as cacti. Regardless of what solution works best for you, remember that gardening beds require less water than a full lawn of grass. Furthermore, modern solutions, such as automatic irrigation systems, can significantly reduce the amount of water wasted on your lawn.
The other predominant concern regarding landscaping is the usage of herbicides, fertilizers, and pesticides that are dangerous to the environment. Weeds can be prevented before they’ve even begun to appear, through the usage of gardening mulch and soil fabrics. In doing so, you’ll be eliminating the need for massive eradication down the road. For fertilization purposes, consider using organic substances like animal manure and grass clippings, both of which are effective in enriching the soil.
Deterring pests is a difficult problem, regardless of whether chemical or organic pesticides are used. One of the best ways to avoid animal destruction of your plants is to simply plant things that aren’t appealing to pests in your area. Furthermore, you may want to use plants that act as natural deterrents to specific groups of animals.
By substituting some of your traditional arsenal with more friendly products, you’re garden will remain healthy and happier. Furthermore, you’ll be growing a lawn and garden that is in every sense, natural! For diehard landscapers and gardeners, nothing could be a greater joy!
Michelle Lowenstein writes for Lawn Care Tips where you can find information about how to care for your lawn and browse through do-it-yourself lawn care tips.
Follow Us!