Sustainability is a hot topic right now, and for good reason. Everybody needs to do their part to protect the environment for future generations. One way to make your backyard more sustainable is through landscaping. There are many things you can do to make your landscaping more eco-friendly. In this article, you will learn about some of the best ways for creating a sustainable landscape!
Table of Contents
Embrace Natural Pest Control
Pests can destroy your garden, and there aren’t many ways you can get rid of them without hurting the environment. However, people have found that attracting wild birds using a suet pellet is an effective way of handling this problem. These contain a high level of fat and protein, which is perfect for birds during the winter months. You can also use them to make your backyard more sustainable by using them as an eco-friendly way to get rid of pests.
Birds will then eat the pests, which will help to keep your garden healthy and free of pests. You can also use this method to attract other wildlife to your backyard, which can help to make it more sustainable.
Start Composting
Composting is the process of breaking down organic matter, such as leaves and food scraps, into a nutrient-rich soil amendment that can be used to improve the health of your garden. It’s a simple way to reduce your impact on the environment while also creating a more sustainable landscape.
There are many different ways to compost, but the most important thing is to make sure that you have a balance of carbon and nitrogen-rich materials. Carbon-rich materials include things like dead leaves, straw, and wood chips. Nitrogen-rich materials include things like fresh grass clippings, kitchen scraps, and coffee grounds. A good ratio of carbon to nitrogen is 30:01:00.
As for supplies, first, you’ll need a compost bin. You can purchase one from a garden center or online, or you can build your own. Second, you’ll need some compostable materials. As mentioned above, you’ll want a mix of carbon and nitrogen-rich materials. Third, you’ll need some water as it must be moist, but not too wet, in order to break down properly.
Minimize The Use Of Fertilizer
Fertilizers can be harmful to the environment if not used correctly. runoff from fertilizer can pollute waterways and contribute to algae blooms. It is important to read the labels on fertilizers and follow the instructions carefully. When in doubt, use less rather than more. Compost is a great alternative to fertilizer and can be made from kitchen scraps and yard waste.
Mulch also helps minimize the need for fertilizer. Mulch is material, such as leaves, straw, or wood chips, that is spread over the ground around plants.
Choose Native Plants
There are tons of native plants you can choose from that will make your garden both beautiful and sustainable. These are the following:
- Asters
- Black-eyed Susans
- Coneflowers
- Lavender
- Milkweed
- Sunflowers
- Yarrows
Not only will choosing native plants help make your backyard more sustainable, but it will also attract local wildlife such as bees, butterflies, and birds. So not only will you be doing your part to help the environment, but you’ll also get to enjoy all the beauty and benefits that come with it!
Harvest Rain Water
You don’t need to waste water since it’s falling out of the sky for free! All you need is a little preparation to harvest rainwater. This will help lower your water bill, and it’s an eco-friendly way to take care of your plants.
First, you need to collect rainwater in barrels or other containers. Be sure to clean them out first so the water isn’t contaminated. Then, place the barrels under gutters or downspouts to collect the water as it falls. Use a pump to move the water from the barrel to a watering can or hose for easy distribution. Finally, Add mulch around your plants to help retain moisture and reduce evaporation.
With just a little effort, you can have sustainable landscaping that will save you money and help the environment.
Plant Rain Gardens
Rain gardens are another efficient way to manage water on your property and they have the added benefit of being beautiful. They work by collecting rainwater runoff in a planting bed and allowing it to percolate back into the ground slowly rather than running off of your property. Fill your rain garden with native plants that are drought-tolerant. This will minimize the amount of watering you’ll need to do once it’s established.
To make one, choose an area of your yard that slopes slightly so the water will drain downhill. Then, dig out the planting bed and line it with rocks or a layer of soil. Be sure to leave an outlet for the water to escape. Finally, plant your rain garden with native plants that can tolerate both wet and dry conditions.
Having an eco-friendly backyard is easier than ever with natural pest controllers handling your business while your compost instead of using fertilizer. Make sure to use native plants and harvest rainwater. Finally, you can even build a rain garden that will handle this for you. You’ll have a beautiful backyard that is just as sustainable!
