From our home to yours....I hope that this blog finds you well and safe. Did you know that working in your garden is one of the safest and healthiest ways to socially distance yourself? Next Wednesday is the 50th anniversary of Earth Day; so, with that in mind, I wanted to share with you a few eco-friendly landscaping tips as you dig into your spring projects.
Spruce up your Front Door
If the entrance into your home is a little tired looking think about giving your front door a POP of color. Be creative and don't be afraid to try something "out there". The entrance to our house was a bit hidden and certainly not grand. Charles built this beautiful wood arbor to provide some interest and personality for our tiny entrance. To make it even more welcoming, adding a bold pop of color to the door and surrounding it with colorful containers and flowers makes for a beautiful entrance to our home.
Plant Trees and Shrubs Native to Your Area
Find trees and shrubs that are native to your area. They’ll repel pests and require fewer pesticides. Planting your trees strategically can also help provide shade for your home in the summer and let sunlight in throughout the winter. As a bonus, it will help cut heating and air conditioning costs.
Conserve Water
Xeriscaping (A landscaping method that employs drought-resistant plants and special techniques to conserve water) your yard in dry climates is a great way to conserve water. If you don’t xeriscape completely, group plants together that have similar watering needs. If possible, collect rainwater in a rain barrel to water and schedule sprinklers to water early in the morning and late at night to avoid evaporation.
Use Natural Fertilizers
If you like to use fertilizer, look for a natural fertilizer to help turn your grass green. Using compost is a great organic way to fertilize your grass and plants. In addition to helping the lawn, it helps the soil. Also, pull your weeds rather than use weed killers that contain chemicals and pesticides.
Add Mulch
Use mulch around trees and garden beds to help control weeds and conserve water. Organic mulch also helps with healthy root growth and it promotes good soil.
Most importantly, stay healthy….and enjoy your home!
Rosalie and Charles
