The Benefits of Landscape Lighting

Landscape Lighting Miami is a great way to make a home or garden glow and create an inviting atmosphere. It increases curb appeal and makes your property more attractive to potential buyers.

The first step is laying out your low-voltage wires. Connect the transformer to an outdoor electrical outlet using a plastic “while-in-use” cover, then connect each light fixture to the wires.

landscape lighting

Landscape lighting has many functions, ranging from safety and security to aesthetics. When done correctly, it makes your home’s exterior come to life at night while drawing attention to prized landscaping features and architectural structures.

Safety – The right amount of landscape lighting can reveal trip hazards like rocks, uneven ground and steps and make it easier to navigate your outdoor space after dark. It also helps reduce the risk of burglary and vandalism by making it harder for intruders to hide in the shadows.

Security – Properly placed landscape lighting will illuminate pathways and stairs leading to the door, so guests, family members and pets can safely get to the front door after dark. It can also highlight potential crime-prone areas like entryways and driveways, helping deter criminal activity from occurring in the first place.

Aesthetics – A well-lit garden and yard can provide a soothing, calm effect that is both relaxing and inviting. In addition to highlighting trees, shrubs, and flowers, it can draw the eye to a focal point like a fountain or statue, and help create an overall sense of order and balance throughout the yard.

The first step in creating a functional landscape lighting plan is to decide what you want to light up and why. A helpful way to do this is to sketch out your property and identify the key elements you’d like to highlight. Consider how each feature relates to the home and any other landscaping as well, such as seating areas or hardscaping features. Next, determine how each element should be lit to create the desired effect.

There are a number of different lighting techniques that can be used to achieve the desired effect. For example, a technique called silhouetting involves positioning a light behind an object to create a striking silhouette effect. It can be used to highlight statues, flag poles, centerpiece trees and other features.

Another consideration when planning your lighting system is how the lights are connected to one another and to a power source. Most landscape lighting systems use low-voltage wiring, which requires a transformer to convert standard 120-volt electricity into safe 12-volt energy for the light fixtures. The wires are then daisy-chained from the transformer to each light fixture. This allows you to avoid the cost and hassle of trenching and burying wires.

Landscape lighting isn’t just functional – it can also be stunning. A well-designed landscape lighting scheme will highlight your home’s features, such as fountains, ponds, flower gardens, patios, pergolas, statues, and more. This can boost your property’s curb appeal and make it Instagram-worthy!

Using multiple lighting techniques, including up-lighting and down-lighting, is the best way to truly accentuate your hardscape/softscape features. Up-lighting creates bold shadows that contrast with the bright light, while down-lighting creates a more subtle moonlit effect. Cross-lighting is another popular technique that emphasizes both sides of a feature, which can help showcase unique shapes and details in a landscape design.

Another important function of landscape lighting is to illuminate walkways and paths. This helps prevent people from tripping on objects and sustaining injuries. For this reason, it’s important to use a wide-angle path light that covers a lot of ground with little or no hot spots. You can also add color-changing lights to your landscape to set the mood and attract attention.

Many homeowners choose to highlight special features of their yard and garden with landscape lighting, such as water features, ponds, flower beds, outdoor furniture, and statues. This can make them stand out at night, boosting your home’s curb appeal and making it more beautiful for guests and friends to see.

However, it’s important to note that satisfying all goals of a landscape lighting design is not easy. For example, if you decide to light a pathway to your front door, it’s likely that your main goal will be safety since the illumination will reveal any obstacles or irregularities that could cause someone to trip on your property. At the same time, you’ll want to make sure the lighting is attractive so that you don’t ruin the ambiance of your landscape.

For this reason, it’s important for homeowners to focus on one goal at a time when planning a landscaping project. This will help them avoid compromising on any of the above goals and will also ensure that their projects are done properly. If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, we recommend hiring a professional to perform the installation and maintenance of your landscape lighting to get the best results.

As important as beauty is to landscape lighting, safety is also a vital aspect of your design. Whether you’re installing lights to guide your guests after dark, or illuminating stairs and other trip hazards for children, family, friends, and pets — a well-lit exterior is a huge benefit for home safety.

Stairways and other pathways are a common place for falls to occur, especially when it’s dark outside. Landscape lighting can brighten up these areas to make them more visible, reducing the risk of injury and making it easier for people to navigate safely.

The same goes for outdoor lighting for businesses, as a well-lit property makes it easier for employees to navigate the space after work. This can help reduce injuries and keep the business running smoothly.

In addition, outdoor lighting is a great deterrent to crime. Burglars look for properties that are easily approachable, and a well-lit yard can discourage them from entering your home by drawing attention to the area with lights that activate with motion sensors or timers.

Another great way to add to your outdoor safety is to light up the entryway of your home with path lights, as this can help prevent unwanted intruders from entering. This helps you and your loved ones feel safe and secure in your own space, and it can discourage predatory animals like coyotes, alligators, and raccoons that may prowl the area after darkness.

When shopping for fixtures, it’s critical to purchase a premium brand that is made of solid brass or copper rather than aluminum. These types of fixtures will not rust or corrode and can stand up to the elements much better than competitors’ plastic-based products. To further protect your investment, a treatment such as Anti-Fog can be applied to your fixtures to prevent water spots and fog. Keeping your landscape lighting in great condition is key to ensuring it lasts for years to come!

A properly designed and professionally installed landscape lighting system is very durable. However, like any other electrical system, it requires periodic maintenance. Lighting professionals can provide a range of services to help keep your system running efficiently and looking great all year round. These services include fixture cleaning, fixture alignment, operations monitoring, bulb replacement and timing adjustment.

During a maintenance visit, lighting professionals will check each fixture for broken lenses, dented metal and corrosion. They’ll also examine the power supply, inspecting the transformer and examining wiring to make sure everything is in place and working correctly. During the inspection, they will also check for signs of water infiltration (such as algae or mold) and address any problems with the system.

In addition, lighting professionals can re-position lights that have been moved over time. This is common, as plants grow or mowing can knock fixtures out of their intended spot. They’ll also make sure that the lights are pointing in the right direction, as some were designed to point upward and others were installed to highlight specific features of your landscape.

Another key part of maintenance is ensuring that any exposed wires are buried again. This prevents people or pets from tripping over them and damaging the electrical wiring, and it makes the system look tidier. If a wire is found to be damaged or compromised in any way, it should be repaired by an electrician before being reburied.

In addition, a lighting professional will check the system’s timing to make sure it is in accordance with sunrise and sunset times, as well as changes due to daylight savings. This helps to reduce energy consumption and extend the life of bulbs. Finally, they will replace any light bulbs that are showing signs of age. This is very important, as the wrong light bulb can damage your landscape lighting system. Using LED bulbs can reduce the need for frequent bulb replacements, but even these have a lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced. By performing this routine maintenance regularly, you’ll help extend the life of your lighting system and get the most from its functionality and beauty.

How a Good Reputation Can Help a Tree Service Grow

Trimming or pruning trees keeps them healthy and free of damage. Tree removal removes dangerous or dead trees, and stump grinding clears the area for new landscaping. For more information, just visit Georgetown Tree Services to proceed.

It is important to hire a reputable and experienced tree service company. There are many things to look for, such as their reputation and insurance.

A good reputation can help a tree service grow its business by increasing its clients. This is because people trust the recommendations of others and are more likely to hire a company with a positive reputation. A good reputation can also make a tree service more profitable by helping them reduce costs and improve their efficiency. A good way to build a strong reputation is by providing quality work and prompt service.

A reputable tree service will be licensed and insured to protect workers and customers from liability. In addition, they should be members of professional organizations such as the International Society of Arboriculture or the Tree Service Association. Additionally, they should have a certified arborist on staff to perform inspections. This is important because a tree can fall on anything, including people and cars. A certified arborist can assess the condition of a tree and determine whether or not it needs to be removed.

Trees are beautiful additions to any home or garden but can also be hazardous. A tree should be removed immediately to avoid damage and injuries if it is dead or damaged. Fortunately, many tree services specialize in tree trimming and removal. They can also do other landscaping tasks like trimming shrubbery and stump grinding.

If you are looking for a reliable tree service, choose one that can provide the best results at a fair price. A good tree service will have a proven track record and a knowledgeable staff. They will also be able to handle all types of trees, including those with extensive roots.

The experience of a tree service can be a huge indicator of whether or not they are qualified to take care of your trees. A company with years of experience will have the knowledge and expertise to ensure your trees are healthy and safe. They will also know how to handle any problems arising during the job.

A reputable company will also have insurance, which is important for the customer and the tree service company. Liability insurance will cover any damage that might be caused during the work, and worker’s compensation will protect both parties if an employee is injured. A reputable tree service will also have a good history of customer satisfaction.

Tree services are businesses that provide a variety of tree care and maintenance activities, including pruning, cutting, and stump removal. They can also offer consultation services to help homeowners understand how best to care for their trees. In addition, they can provide other landscaping and gardening services.

When choosing a tree service, look for one accredited by a recognized industry association. These associations set standards for safety and best practices in the field. They also work with Congress to advocate for improvements in the tree care industry.

Getting multiple estimates before hiring a tree service is always a good idea. Avoid companies that charge extremely low prices, as they may not be properly insured or experienced. Additionally, it is important to ask about any hidden fees or charges. For example, a company might not include the cost of removing a stump in their quote. This can be a costly mistake, as the stump can become a tangled mess that inhibits grass and other greenery from growing around it.

The tree service industry can be hazardous, and accidents do happen. Hiring a company with proper insurance coverage is important if something goes wrong. Look for a policy that includes general liability and workers’ compensation. In addition, ask for proof of coverage before hiring. This should consist of the company’s policy number and limits.

General liability coverage protects your business from third-party claims such as bodily injury or property damage. For example, if one of your employees accidentally damages a client’s home during a trimming project, this policy would cover the cost of repairs. Typically, this policy also covers the cost of legal fees or settlements.

Inland marine insurance is another essential coverage for tree services. This coverage protects any equipment or supplies you transport between job sites. For example, if you must haul your chainsaws, ladders, stump grinders, or other tools to the next location, this policy can cover your loss or theft. Adding an installation floater endorsement designed to protect equipment in transit and awaiting installation is also a good idea.

Most states require workers’ compensation for tree services that have employees. If an employee is injured on the job, this policy covers their medical expenses and a portion of lost wages. Additionally, if an employee is killed on the job, this policy provides a death benefit to the deceased’s family. If you’re considering hiring a tree service, request a copy of their insurance before beginning work. This should include a valid certificate of insurance with the company’s name on it. If the company refuses or can’t provide a certificate, it’s best to find a different company.

Tree work requires specialized equipment designed for the specific challenges of working with trees. This differs from the equipment used by landscaping companies, which is generally intended for mowing lawns and other ground-level tasks. Arborists use various sharp tools, including chainsaws, pruning shears, hatchets, and handsaws. These tools can pose a serious safety hazard when not handled properly. They must also climb or rig up ropes, lanyards, and carabiners for high-up tasks and wear protective gear like helmets and eye and ear protection.

A reputable tree service company will have the right equipment to perform all the services needed for your property. Suppose your property has evergreens infested with pests such as spruce budworm or pine beetle. In that case, the company will have the right product solutions to eliminate these problems without harming the trees themselves.

If a big storm knocks over a tree or shears off a large branch, it’s important to call a tree service immediately. These professionals will be able to get to the site quickly, cut off any damaged branches, and clear away the debris. They can also help you with storm damage to power lines and other structures.

Tree services also have the specialized equipment to remove entire trees when necessary. They can cut off limbs or trunks as the whole tree, haul it away in a truck, and clean up any debris. They may also be able to install support systems for a tree in danger of falling over or provide stump grinding to remove the remains of a removed tree. This equipment can be dangerous, so hiring a professional with the experience and knowledge to use it correctly is important.

Regardless of how careful tree service workers are, there’s still a risk that something could go wrong. The chances include falling from high heights, electrocution, being struck by falling trees or branches, injuries from chainsaws and wood chippers, and exposure to pesticides and other tree care chemicals. That’s why safety measures are such an important aspect of tree services.

Whether pruning, cutting down, or installing new equipment, tree services should have a qualified safety professional (QTW) on-site during work operations. They should perform a hazard assessment, including visually inspecting the tree and considering weather conditions such as high winds, fog, ice, rain, and lightning. The QTW should also establish safe work procedures for each job and communicate these with other employees during a job briefing.

In addition, the QTW should ensure that each employee is wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment and knows how to use it. They should also provide each worker with a hard hat and eye protection. The QTW should be able to tell employees if animal nests, hives, or poison ivy are on the tree.

The QTW should also be able to explain how they will lower the materials or limbs to the ground. This is an especially critical step if the limbs or trees are near buildings or power lines.

One way to do this is by using cable bracing, which ties together various points in the tree to help it stand up to heavy winds. Another is rigging techniques, which involve pulling in ropes or pulleys to control the lowering process and prevent damage to surrounding property. Finally, they should also be able to tell you what kind of liability insurance and worker’s compensation they carry.

Moving Day Essentials

In all the planning, packing, and craziness that comes with moving days, it’s easy to forget a few small but essential items. Toilet paper, for example. Or a corkscrew. And some batteries. These easily accessible items will help make your move easier and less stressful for everyone.

Pack an Overnight Bag

movers

If your moving day involves traveling to your new home or staying in a hotel while your house is being packed and transported, you should ensure that you have an overnight bag containing all the items you will need. This will save you the trouble of rummaging through boxes of your belongings just to find a toothbrush or a pair of pajamas.

It’s also a good idea to pack your chargers for your cellphone, laptop and other electronics, along with any essential cords you use to charge them. This will help ensure that you’re able to stay connected with family, real estate and moving professionals and workers throughout the move. You may also want to include a sheet with contact information for your movers, realtor and utility companies in case you need to reach them on moving day or in the days immediately following.

Your overnight bag should also include toiletries that you use on a daily basis such as toothpaste and toothbrushes, shampoo, soap, deodorant, shaving implements and perfume. It’s also a good idea to include some medication and any other supplies that you will need on a daily basis. If you wear contacts, be sure to pack your solution and supplies.

Be sure to include a few snacks and water in your bag as well. This will help keep you hydrated and fed while you are on the go and will help prevent you from getting hungry and exhausted during the move. You should also pack a few toys and activities for your kids to keep them entertained during the move. This can include their favorite books, games and stuffed animals.

Pack Your Phone Chargers

With all of the planning and craziness that comes with moving day, it’s easy to forget a few things that will make a big difference on your first day in your new home. The last thing you want is to find yourself at your new house with a dead phone and no way to charge it! To prevent this from happening, tuck your chargers into a small bag or box that you will keep with you throughout the move.

In addition to your electronic chargers, include any other items you might need that are difficult to pack (like a pair of scissors or a gliding knife for cutting tape). Also, be sure to have an overnight bag of essentials for the evening of the move and the night after. This includes things like a change of clothes, a sleeping bag and pillows for the kids, a few snacks and beverages, a book or magazine and some personal hygiene items (like saline solution, medications, shampoo/conditioner and toothbrushes).

Finally, don’t forget your pet supplies! A bag of food, treats, water bowls and toys will help your furry friends feel less stressed during the move.

Once you’ve packed up all of your belongings into boxes, take the time to set aside any cleaning supplies that you will need to clean up after the movers leave. It’s not a good idea to try and find these items in the middle of unpacking, as they could get lost or damaged among the stacks of boxes. Having these supplies readily available will save you a lot of headache! Whether you’re doing the move yourself or hiring professionals, these tips are sure to help you stay prepared for moving day.

Pack a Corkscrew

Whether you’re planning on celebrating the start of your new life with a bottle of wine or simply enjoying a glass of vino after a long moving day, having a corkscrew is a must. A simple waiter’s corkscrew fits nicely into an apron pocket or into your purse and is easy to carry from box to box. A counter-mount or wall-mount corkscrew is also a good choice if you want to put it somewhere convenient in your new home.

When you’re packing up your things to move, make sure you include a medium-sized pot and basic kitchen supplies in a separate “first night” moving box. This will give you the ability to cook some food during your first few days in your new home and can help keep you fed as you unpack other boxes.

You may also want to consider packing a few cleaning items in your first-night box, such as paper towels, wet wipes, trash bags, rags, sponges, an all-purpose cleaner, a bucket, and a broom. This way, you’ll have the cleaning supplies necessary for giving your old home a final sweep before it gets loaded on the truck and unpacked in your new one.

Of course, you’ll also need some toiletries and bedding in your first-night box to get a decent night’s sleep and start off your new life on the right foot. It’s easily overlooked, but you don’t want to show up in your new home and have to search through multiple boxes to find your toothbrush or shampoo. So, take the time to pack these items up now and enjoy your new home as soon as possible. You’ll be glad you did.

Pack Batteries

In the midst of moving day chaos and a long to-do list, it’s easy for some of your most basic necessities to get lost in the shuffle. Having these easily overlooked essentials set aside and ready to go on your first day in your new home can make all the difference.

The last thing you want on your move-in day is to find yourself running out of clean clothes, toilet paper or batteries. Having a box dedicated to these items is the best way to avoid such scenarios. Pack a day or two’s worth of clothing for each family member, a few rolls of toilet paper, a handful of batteries and any other necessary supplies you may need to make the transition from your old home to your new one a little bit smoother.

If you’re a military household, make sure to pack any lithium batteries your electronics, cleaning devices or children’s toys use. Due to safety concerns, U.S. Transportation Command now requires military households to only pack certain sizes of lithium batteries in their moving shipments. Be sure to check the guidelines on your devices to ensure you don’t exceed the limit.

When the day is done and you’re settling into your new bedroom, you’ll want to hop right in the shower and settle down for a good night of sleep. Don’t forget to include a set of bath towels in your essentials box so you can wash off that grueling day and prepare for a restful night in bed at your new home. These are also a great addition to your boxes for storage, as they protect against moisture and pests.

Pack a Coffee Pot

The morning after your move, you’ll be tired and hungry. Pack a coffee pot, some cups, and some creamer in a small cooler. That way, you’ll be able to enjoy a cup of coffee as you survey your boxes and figure out where to begin.

It’s important to start your day off right on moving day, so make sure you have some essential supplies like a broom and dustpan, paper towels, cleaning liquid, and an all-purpose cleaner. You’ll also want to have a roll of toilet paper, and permanent markers to label your boxes. Having these items on hand will help you clean up after the movers leave, as well as keep your essentials box organized and accessible.

When packing up dishes, place at least two layers of crumpled cardboard or packing paper in the bottom of each box. Then, wrap each plate individually with a dishtowel and bubble wrap. Stuff any empty spaces in the box with more paper and then tape down the top. Clearly label the box with “this side up” and “fragile” to ensure it gets treated with care throughout the move.

By following these tips, you can avoid a lot of headaches on moving day. Don’t forget to wear comfortable clothing, stay hydrated, and have the right sized truck for your belongings. And if you hire professional movers, show them around the house before they get to work so they know which rooms are fragile and what furniture needs to be disassembled. This will save you time and money in the long run. You can also use Scotch(r) Expressions Washi Tape to label your boxes and add a little flair to the process.

Top Ways On How To Fix Your Green Landscape

Green landscaping is not only eco-friendly, it can also add beauty to your property. Some of these greening strategies include using compost, mulch and organic fertilizers to keep your plants healthy. Avoid invasive plant species as they often degrade the natural environment and crowd out native plants.

Another greening practice is replacing your lawn with native plants that are adapted to your local climate. Mulching your yard also reduces weeds, moderates soil temperatures and prevents erosion.

1. Repair Damaged Plants

When choosing plants for green landscaping, it is important to choose those that are native to your region. This helps reduce the number of chemicals used, as well as conserves water and soil. In addition, it is also a good idea to avoid invasive species of plant that can take over natural habitats and compete with local vegetation for resources.

Many green landscapes have been damaged by extreme heatwaves, especially those accompanied by hot winds and low humidity. To prevent additional damage, keep lawns mowed and shrubs pruned to the ground level (not above) to stimulate new growth. In addition, shade cloth or cardboard can be laid over areas that are reflecting intense sunlight to protect plants from damage. Alternatively, plants can be protected with anti-transpirant sprays such as Yates Drought Shield.

The use of organic mulch also helps to promote green landscaping, as it acts as a natural weed barrier and reduces moisture loss. It also improves soil structure and moderates soil temperatures. In addition, it can help reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and weed killers.

If using organic mulch, it is best to apply a thick layer (2 to 3 inches) to reduce weeds and maintain proper soil moisture levels. It is also a good idea to aerate the lawn to reduce soil compaction, and to amend the soil with organic compost or garden gypsum to increase nutrient availability and to promote beneficial microorganisms.

It is a good idea to plant during spring or fall when weather conditions are mild and plants can get established without the risk of frost. Soil that is too acidic or too alkaline can limit the availability of nutrients to plants, causing them to turn yellow. Soil tests can identify nutrient issues and provide recommendations for amending the soil to restore the optimum pH balance needed by plants to produce green leaves.

2. Remove Weeds

Weeds steal valuable space and nutrients that grass and other desirable plants need to grow. They also attract lawn damaging insects, which may require insecticides to control. Regular weeding is the first step in creating an eco-friendly landscape. When done correctly, it can keep weeds from growing out of control and prevent them from producing seeds.

Avoid using chemicals and instead, use a combination of techniques to fight the weeds. Tilling the soil can help break up existing weeds and remove their roots. Mulching is another good option. The organic material helps keep the soil cool, retains water and encourages worms and microbes that are beneficial to plants.

The best way to reduce annual weeds in the garden is by layering an organic, biodegradable mulch over the top of the soil. A 3-inch layer of straw, wood chips or bark mulch will suppress weeds by blocking sunlight and breaking down over time to amend the soil. Alternatively, you can lay down landscape fabric to stop weeds from sprouting in the ground or on the surface. The fabric is breathable, meaning it allows water, air and some nutrients to pass through the barrier to the soil beneath.

Another great technique is to create a compost pile with yard waste and leaf litter. The resulting mulch can be used to cover the soil around shrubs, flowers, trees and other perennials, and it will break down over time, adding rich organic material to the ground. Avoid bagging grass clippings unless they’re so long that they will smother the lawn and use them to make compost instead. This will help reduce landfill waste and encourage the creation of an eco-friendly green landscape.

3. Repair Water Damage

Water damage from green landscaping can occur in a few ways. Generally, it happens when there is an excess of surface water on your property and the surrounding soil can’t absorb it quickly enough. This excess water can damage trees, shrubs, grass, and other plants. It can also cause clogged gutters and lead to flooding in certain areas of the yard. In addition, stagnant water can create an unpleasant odor.

One way to avoid this problem is by choosing native plants for your yard that are adapted to your climate and soil conditions. This will reduce your need for watering and fertilizers. It is also a good idea to get your soil tested before you begin planting, so you can select the correct plants for your environment.

Adding mulch to your garden beds and around plants will help inhibit weeds and conserve water. It will also prevent soil erosion and moderate soil temperatures. You can find a variety of mulches at local stores or online. Another great way to save on your water usage is by installing rain barrels and using them to collect and harvest the rainwater from your roof for landscape use.

When you are ready to start your green landscaping project, it is important to hire a home inspection team and horticultural landscaper that will work together to come up with a design that fits your needs and environment. You may also want to consider having your sewer lines inspected, as tree and plant roots can make their way into damaged or clogged sewer pipes and create flooding problems. It is also important to have your sewer lines cleaned on a regular basis to keep them from getting damaged.

4. Repaint

Greens can be one of the most difficult colors to get right on a painting. In fact, it can be so tricky that some landscape painters avoid them altogether. Fortunately, there are some steps that can help you overcome this problem and create a beautiful landscape painting.

One of the most important things to do before beginning an exterior painting project is to cover any areas that won’t be painted with tarps, plastic bags, or other sturdy coverings. This will protect your plants, flowers, trees, and shrubs from paint splatters that could ruin their appearance or cause harm to the surrounding area.

During the painting process, you should also take steps to reduce your use of gas-powered tools. These machines produce a lot of pollution that can harm the environment and your health, so it’s always worth looking into replacing them with emissions-free alternatives.

Another way to protect your green landscape is to use mulch and other ground cover that prevents water from evaporating. This can save you money on your energy bill and help the environment by reducing the amount of water that evaporates from your property.

Landscape fabric is a spun synthetic-fiber material that blocks sunlight, but allows water and air to pass through. Once you’ve prepared the ground, roll out the fabric and secure it with landscape fabric staples (you’ll need a hammer for this). If necessary, rake the area over the top of the landscape fabric to eliminate any creases or bumps.

Before you start painting, it’s a good idea to test the color of your paint in an out-of-the-way part of your green landscape. This way, you’ll know whether or not it’s the right shade before you begin to paint your house and other outdoor structures.

5. Replace Grass

One of the best ways to green up your landscape is to replace your grass with plants. Lawns are a major drain on the environment and require a lot of water to maintain. Instead, replace your lawn with a garden of shrubs, ground covers and flowers. The good news is that gardening takes about the same amount of time as lawn maintenance and requires far fewer resources.

First take a big picture look at your landscape to determine where the sun and shade are throughout the yard, what type of soil you have and whether or not it is sloping. This will help you select the right plants for your area. Native plants are usually the best choice as they are already tailored to your climate and soil conditions. They also have natural defenses against local pests and bacteria.

If you are going to plant, scalp the existing lawn to get a light scattering of seeds and encourage seed-to-soil contact before overseeding. Cover the seeds with a light layer of mulch such as shredded leaves or compost to conserve moisture and protect from drying sunlight.

To keep your new plantings healthy, use organic fertilizers and skip the chemical varieties. Organic options are easy to find and won’t be absorbed into the environment where they can harm or kill wildlife, contaminate the water supply or enter groundwater sources.

If you do choose to use chemicals, make sure they are the lowest toxicity varieties available. Also, be sure to water wisely by capturing and using rainwater for your garden. Rain gardens are a great way to do this and can save you up to 30 percent of your annual water usage.

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