Sustainability is the buzzword today, with every individual becoming more aware of environmental issues and how global warming is threatening on the planet. Everybody is looking for ways to make changes to their lifestyle to follow a sustainable style of living. Why not begin by making efforts at home to live a more sustainable life?
Your backyard is just the right spot where you can exercise your sustainability endeavors and do your bit for the planet. All you need to do is think of ideas on how to add sustainable items to your backyard.
Ideas for a sustainable backyard
- Plant local and native plants, flowers, fruits, and vegetables that are indigenous to your region. These plants will thrive well and need less care as they are already well suited to the climate and soil types. Moreover, native plants are good for local insect and bird populations.
- Decorate your backyard with sustainable and eco-friendly materials. Recycling old furniture and using it in the backyard is a good idea. You can also use recycled metal and natural stone as décor for the backyard space and to add some old-time charm. Get teak outdoor furniture for better looks and durability. Nothing looks more attractive and charming than a backyard decorated with old rustic items.
- Stop using any chemical sprays in the backyard and in your vegetable garden, as all those harmful chemicals will get absorbed into the soil and affect the environment negatively. Instead, use homemade compost for fertilizer and use birds and insects to naturally weed out pests from the backyard.
- Try to grow your own food, such as vegetables, fruits, and herbs. You will not only save on your grocery bills but end up eating a lot more satisfying, delicious and nutritious meals. Some crops and vegetables, such as greens and lettuce, and sprouts are easy to grow, while others can be grown seasonally. So, consult the local gardeners and know which plants, fruits, and vegetables you can grow in your backyard every season for the best results.
- Design the backyard in such a way that it helps to conserve water. Saving wasted water can be a major step toward enhancing sustainability in your backyard. Just install a water butt at the end of every downpipe to collect the water when it rains. You can use this water to water the plants, flowers, fruits, and vegetables in your backyard. Keep in mind that water is turning into a [precious resource every minute.
- Mulch the landscape to prevent weeds and hold moisture in the soil. This is a great idea for regions and areas with watering restrictions. All you need to do is add a few inches of mulch to the den beds and around landscape plants. Some popular mulch options include pine needles, grass clippings, cocoa bean hulls, bark, and coir.
Just by incorporating those small green practices into the backyard will boost your eco-friendly efforts and show that you really love the planet. Follow the above listed sustainable practices for the right start.
