There was a time when your home was surrounded by green landscaping
which only meant the color green. Today it also means being good to the environment.
In my quest to leave a smaller footprint on this earth I incorporated the Green Gardening
checklist items. Living in South Florida has its own unique challenges (as may be the
case in your area) to this endeavor, but I’ve nipped it in the bud and have come out
smelling like a rose. I even have a green thumb to prove it!
Decrease areas of grass as grass typically needs more water than other plants
Select xeriscaping plants (use plants for dry or harsh climates that require minimal watering)
Select enviroscaping plants (use plants to reduce energy use)
Select zero-scaping plants (use native plants and succulents and more sparse plantings)
Select plants with biodegradable pots
If you can’t find plants in biodegradable pots use perennials instead of annuals
Use organic fertilizers. Check with your local extension service for products to use in your area.
Mulch with natural products such as leaves or pine needles. Mulch holds in moisture and helps block the growth of weeds in your garden.
Use eco-friendly insect repellents instead of chemical insecticides. Check with your local extension service for products to use in your area.
Use rain barrels to collect rain water to use for plant watering, washing cars or for washing your hair!
Select plants that require less water; look for conservation tags
Select plants that are native to your area (these often require less maintenance, chemicals and water)
Select plants that encourage birds, bees and butterflies to maintain a healthy balanced habitat
Select plants that will not attract unwanted animals like rabbits and deer unless you want rabbits and deer in your landscaping
Don’t purchase invasive species. Check with your local agencies to find out which plants to avoid.
Compost. Check with local agencies for ways to start your own compost bin at home.
Install a rain gauge on your sprinkler system so sprinklers don’t run after and during a rain.
Run your sprinklers during hours best for your area of the country. Avoid watering during the heat of the day, and check with your local extension service for the best times to water in your area.
Consider using beneficial insects native to your area to control damaging insect pests
Use reel (manual) lawn mowers instead of gas or electric
Save water by using drip lines in landscape beds instead of sprinkler heads (less evaporation)
