Yes, it’s still pretty cold around most of the U.S., but I figured it’s never too late to be thinking about the spring. For us in Texas, it’s really only six or eight weeks away. I figured I would share the top ten ways that I’ve been able to go green on the green stuff outside…the yard.
Here’s my top 10:
1. Never bag your grass clippings. It’s food for the lawn. It’s free fertilizer.
2. Raise your mower’s cutting height slightly higher than you might be used to. It helps reduce water needs and promotes stronger root growth.
3. Fertilize only with organic fertilizers (preferably, customized for your region’s soil types). If you mulch your grass clippings, it’s likely you are providing enough food you may not need to fertilize. In Central Texas, many local nurseries offer organic fertilizers that cost just about the same as many of those useless weed and feed products.
4. Prevent weeds with an organic pre-emergent: corn gluten. In Central Texas, I apply it mid-October and mid-March.
5. Fight fungus with cornmeal. Yep, corn again…the wonder drug. While you’re at it, add some dry molasses to “sweeten” your lawn. It helps drive ants away.
6. Reduce the amount of grass you have to mow. This has many positives, but I have to admit, I like grass.
7. Mulch. Many city recycling programs offer free mulch. This is a great way to keep those plants quenched during the warm days and warm during the cold days.
8. Xeriscape. Plant as many native plants as possible and reduce the water needs of your yard!
9. Mow electric. Full disclosure, I don’t have an electric mower, but I’ve borrowed my mom’s before. Her Neuton mower is great for most lawn sizes. It’s quiet and you don’t smell like gas afterward. If you can’t make the switch, just mow after 5 and keep that mower tuned up.
10. Plant native trees. This is my favorite. Just be sure you plant the right species for your weather and the right size for your lot. Here’s a great resource for us Texans: http://texastreeplanting.tamu.edu/index.html
Many thanks to programs that have taught me a ton (Central Texas Gardener) and for pioneers like Howard Garrett and John Dromgoole. Although I’ve never met them personally, their wisdom and resources have been instrumental in helping me grow organic.
I hope that helps you go and “grow” green. Your yard, pets, kids, neighbors, and Mother Earth will thank you.
