March 14th

By Mutt Mulligan

Eco Tips for Green Space Care – Part 1

In the early 20^th century, lawns became a central part of the American landscape. The White House without its lawn, for instance, would be unthinkable. Today, home lawns throughout the nation comprise roughly 21 million acres.  Back yards and front yards are undeniably part of the human landscape, and along with trees, shrubs and other plants, provide important lessons in photosynthesis, water filtration, carbon storing, and more.

Parents and children can ensure their home landscape not only provides a healthy place to play and relax, but also does its part in creating oxygen, capturing carbon and keeping the home cooler during hot summer months.

Below is the first in a series of tips from TurfMutt, the 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.

Tip #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?