Make the World a Greener Place, One Blade at a Time

Below are tips from TurfMutt, a caped dog crusader - and face of a new Discovery Education program – who aims to help kids get outside and understand the importance of the everyday green spaces all around us.

1. Fertilize Naturally - Lawns take up the largest amount of carbon when they recycle nitrogen contained in grass clippings. So, take off that mulcher bag and leave clippings on the ground while mowing to break down and feed your grass naturally. And, how about applying some compost to your lawn in the Spring or Fall with your seed spreader?

2.  Plant the Right Plant - It’s important to choose grass or plants that are right for the climate where you live. Then, plants will need less water and fertilization to survive. Go to your local nursery or an online gardening site to find your climate zone to discover what plants are native and which will grow well in your area. For instance, if you live in a drought-prone area, select plants and grass that withstand heat and need less water.

3. Prune Regularly - A single grass plant can have 300 miles of roots. Roots grow strong with appropriate watering and proper pruning. Mowing your lawn regularly, similar to pruning perennial plants and flower gardens, keeps grass healthier and thicker.

4. Water Early -  Watering in the early morning before the sun is intense helps reduce the water lost from evaporation. Installing rain gutters and collecting water from downspouts also helps reduce water use. Trickle irrigation, drip irrigation or smart controller systems help reduce water use and meet the needs of plants. Or, when drought conditions exist, let the grass go dormant.

5. Create More Green Space -  Lawns and other green spaces lessen the “heat island” effect, especially in urban areas, keeping surrounding areas cooler. Is there an area in your neighborhood that could benefit from some green space? If so, plant a garden for tasty veggies or a lawn area for play and relaxation.

Try one or more of these tips to keep your backyard healthy and “green” in a responsible way. And, find out more tips and information at: http://www.turfmutt.com/

In addition, TurfMutt has his own blog, Facebook page and Twitter tips - @TurfMutt.  Check it out!

Reprinted with permission by OPEI Education and Research Foundation Copyright © 2011