Maintaining a natural landscape with mature trees and reduced lawn helps wildlife and reduces energy

User: rdargento01463@yahoo.com

Vendor: None

Action: 3752 - Sustainable Landscaping

I see the half acre lot in which my house sits as part of a larger ecosystem, with neighboring properties that consist of fields, bordering vegetated wetlands, as well as the Nashua River.

I endeavor to maintain my property in a natural state, applying interventions that work in harmony with nature and foster the wildlife that inhabit and visit my yard, rather than through artificial means. We live in a human altered landscape, and although it is unlikely that I can restore nature's balance on my small property, it's so much fun to observe the increasing richness of biodiversity in my yard as a result of my actions. And, to also know that I am playing my part to reduce energy consumption and my carbon footprint.

Learning what to do and what not to do is fun and a challenge. In my effort toward restoring nature's balance, this is my approach. I maintain a small lawn area with battery operated lawn equipment and don't use pesticides, herbicides, or synthetic fertilizers, preferring to work with nature instead of fighting it. Each year I add native perennials to my gardens. The large grove of 60-80 year old sugar maple trees, magnificent 80 year old black oak tree, as well as a variety of smaller native trees and shrubs provide homes and food for wildlife. That continues into the fall, when the garden perennials as well as the carpet of leaves left until late spring clean up protect thousands of overwintering insects including pollinators such as moths, butterflies, and bees allowing them to emerge in spring, providing beauty and sustenance to the many native birds that visit and live here. 

I also benefit from the mature trees around my home that play a role in significantly reducing air temperatures and air conditioning costs, and making summer more comfortable. In winter, the leafless trees allow solar radiation to warm the rooms in my home.

I have learned that each of us in our own way can make a difference. I am rewarded by seeing the results of my actions, and this makes me want to learn more about what I can do to continue making a difference.