Your Sustainable Yard:
Tips for a Healthy Yard and Environment

"Your Sustainable Yard" is a four-part series on managing and maintaining a healthy and environmentally friendly yard. Four topics have been highlighted as listed below. All of the issues are available in individual PDF documents below.

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Grow Healthy Plants

• Choose plants that will thrive where they are planted. Know plant requirements and know your site.
• Fertilize smart: Test your soil and find out which nutrients are needed.
• Mulch to retain water, minimize weeds and reduce stress to your plants.
• Increase the energy efficiency of your home by using trees for shade and cooling.
• Provide a habitat for birds and other wildlife.
• Trees help our planet by storing large amounts of carbon.

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Manage Pests

• Choose plants that are resistant to common disease and insect problems.
• Regularly look for pests to prevent problems before they become established. Sanitation is an important key in pest prevention.
• When pesticides are necessary, try a less toxic alternative to harsh chemicals.

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Water Wisely

• Conserve water by using drip irrigation instead of overhead watering.
• Reduce water pollution by keeping stormwater runoff on your property. Rain gardens, rain barrels and permeable pavements help keep water where it falls.
• Clean up your street. Keep leaves and lawn clippings off sidewalks, curbs and driveways.
• Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; use rain sensors on any automated irrigation systems.

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Recycle Your Yard Trimmings

• Don’t collect and remove grass clippings when you mow. Leave them on your lawn to add valuable nutrients.
• Compost yard and organic waste from your home. Reduce rubbish and create your own natural mulch and fertilizer.
• Bring brush and compost you can’t manage to your municipal site.

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