Most lawns are far from being an environmentally responsible element of a landscape. Their constant demand of water, dependence on chemical fertilizers, and need for insecticides and herbicides, makes them more of an environmental casualty than anything else. And what's so wrong with this is that, once established, an eco-friendly lawn actually takes less work and resources to keep looking beautiful than traditionally kept yards.
Of all the elements responsible, the majority of what is responsible for creating an ecologically friendly green lawn lies in the soil. As with all plants, An eco-green lawn, if grown and maintained in the right atmosphere, will produce lush turf while taxing the environment and your pocket book less than the traditionally cared for yard.
Testing the Ph of the soil as well as the nutrient levels is an important first step. Often overlooked and most important, the proper soil Ph will help insure the nutrients in the soil are available to the plants. Improper Ph can cause even an abundance of nutrients to remain locked up in the soil. No matter how much you add, the plants can't use them. Determine the Ph needs of your grass type, test, adjust the soil if needed, test again.
The practice of continually adding organic matter will help increase nutrient levels as well as buffer the soil to a naturally correct Ph. Almost every city or town has or is near some area of industry that creates organic waste. In my area it's cotton waste and pecan shells. Many municipal locations also give away composts and treated sewer wastes. It may be possible to get plenty of organics for free or next to nothing. Most are fine for direct topical application.
Aerate the soil to help loosen it so that nutrients, air, and water can get to the roots where they're needed. A compact soil won't allow enough saturation for a healthy root system. You can usually rent a simple soil aerator from a local rental agency. After your organic matter is spread on top of the lawn, aeration will create plug holes that will be displaced with the organics. This will keep the soil loose for good saturation as well as feed at the root zone.
Along with using the right type of grass and proper deep watering, these few practices can cover a multitude of requirements and preventions. Perfect soil, moisture, organic nutrients, and seed type can eliminate the need for chemical fertilizers, herbicides, and insecticides altogether as well as reduce the dependance of so much water.
Article courtesy of Steve Boulden, creator of The Landscape Design Site.com which offers free
landscaping ideas, garden plans, pictures, and advice. For more ideas, visit
www.the-landscape-design-site.com.
