Eco-Friendly Lawn Care Tips

This past year I made the decision to be more eco-conscience. It's been a gradual step and so far, I've been recycling at work and at home, unplugged unused appliances, put in energy efficient light bulbs throughout the house and bought an Energy Star rated refrigerator.

This year, to be even more environmentally friendly, I've decided to take care of my lawn in the greenest way I can. This should be interesting since I don't have a green thumb and thus have had lawn service for the past 2 years.

Anyway, I thought I'd pass along the eco-friendly lawn care tips I come across. See tips below.

• Lawn Mower Blades - Keep lawn mower blades sharp because dull blades will make your lawn mower work twice as hard and use more fuel. Also, dull blades tear your grass, making it look brown and vulnerable to disease.
• FREE Mulch - Leave grass clippings on your lawn, it makes for great mulch and it won't cost you a cent. Not to mention less work, no racking or bagging!
• Tall Grass - Raiser your mower's blades 3-4 inches. Taller grass needs less water, competes better with weeds and prevents soil from washing away.
• Aerating the Lawn - I had no idea you had to do this but you do and apparently there is a green way to do it. Instead of using a machine, get yourself some spiked sandals and take a walk around the yard. I'm going to try it but I know my neighbors will look at me funny.
• Lawn Mower - Use the old fashioned push mower. Not only will you be green but you'll save money on gas and it is less dangerous around children. AND you can mow early in the morning and not wake the neighbors!
• FREE Water - Invest in a rain barrel, or make one yourself, to collect rain water from your gutters. This will give you an inexpensive way to water your plants.
• Lawn Moister Meter - Buy a lawn moister meter to make sure you're not over watering you lawn. You'll not only conserve water, but you'll cut down on your water bill in the summer.
• Leaf Blower - You'll get more exercise and use less gas if you use an old fashion rake. But I understand if racking is too much work, I have a huge lawn. So in that case, invest in an electrical leaf blower.
• Chemicals - Go for fertilizers and pest control products that are non-toxic. They decrease the amount of toxins that run-off into our waterways and tend to be safer to use around your pets and children.

Comments

[Neal]

Thank you for the great web site - a true resource, and one that many people clearly enjoy. Keep up the good work.

[Cris]

I learned a lot from you! Thank you! I will surely follow.

[Artificial Turf]

Good tips These are really helpful. thanks