We’ve talked in previous issues about energy-saving improvements that can cut your costs and lessen your home’s impact on the environment. In this issue, in honor of Green Lawn Care Awareness Month, we’ll look at ways to make your home’s outside environment greener and healthier. Thanks to Beth Drucker and Go Green Wilmette for many of these tips.
May To-Dos:
Plant Native Species
Not only are plant species native to our area attractive and hardier than many non-native options, they require less water and fertilization because they’re adapted to Midwestern summers.
Install a Compost Bin
Composting isn’t just a great, green way to reduce organic waste, it makes a big difference in the quality of your soil, lessening the need for fertilizer and other chemicals. Read about the compost bin Get Dwell built and donated to a local middle school.
Install a Rain Collection System
Rain water is great for gardens and lessens usage of tap water, which requires considerably energy to treat and deliver to our homes. A rain barrel can also help alleviate basement leaking by keeping roof runoff out of the yard or the sewer system. Find out more about the benefits and uses of a home rain-collection system.
Collect and Mulch Your Leaves
According to Go Green Wilmette, the village budgets more than $200,000 annually to collect, transport, and dispose of leaves, when they can instead be used to recycle nutrients back into your yard. You can cut down on leaf volume by using a mulching mower.
Ask Your Lawn Care Provider About Going Green
Many yard maintenance professionals offer a natural yard program that avoids or limits the use of chemicals on lawns and gardens, bans the use of leaf blowers in favor of rakes and brooms, uses electric or alternative fuel mowers and other equipment, and reduces water use. Ask your provider about their green practices.
For more information on making and keeping your property green and sustainable, visit Go Green Wilmette. If your interested in building a compost bin or installing a rain water collection system, give us a call at Get Dwell.
