Where Green Landscaping Can Take You

EnviroCitizen.org has found that green landscaping can come in many shapes and forms. Whether you are completely revamping your landscape or you're starting small with a tiny garden, you can do really great things for the environment and the future through green landscaping.

Here are some simple ways to begin small or large-scale green landscaping projects:

• Composting is an easy way to make your own natural fertilizer with little effort, immensely benefiting the environment and your landscape. Composting is easy, inexpensive and a great way to reuse your garden and household biodegradable waste! Simply designate one area to your compost heap and begin putting all of your lawn and home (biodegradable only) waste there. As time goes on, microorganisms will work to break down this waste, turning it into powerful, effective, eco-friendly fertilizer!
• Perennials are a great way to start working on your landscape. Perennials can be grown, found and purchased locally, which means they are perfect for your landscape or garden. They can are very inexpensive and require far less effort than annuals as they return every year!  
• Gardening pot and plant holders can actually be reused over and over. If you do buy potted flowers or plants keep the little plastic or peat pots they come in for next year's crop. Though these products are not the most eco-friendly, it is certainly far better to reuse them than to simply throw them away.
• Native plants will grow best in your area with minimal help. In an effort to save water many homeowners choose native plants over more exotic species as these will require less care and water. Keep your eyes peeled and speak with a local garden curator about the best native plants for your green landscape.
• Bird houses, bat houses and Feeders are great ways to lure insect-eating birds and bats into your yard. Sparrows and bats eat large volumes of harmful insects daily, allowing you to refrain from using harmful pesticides. In addition, the introduction to your landscape of good bugs like ladybugs will feed on aphids and other small insects without you having to move a finger.
• Rain cisterns can be very effective ways of reducing water consumption and decreasing your water bill. A 1-inch rainfall on a 1,000 square foot roof with eaves and a downspout can produce up to 600 gallons of saved water. With a rain cistern system you can get free water for the whole growing season!

Green landscaping can be a beneficial endeavor for your home, your family and the environment! If you would like to start your green landscaping project, check out EnviroCitizen.org's selection of eco-friendly garden and landscaping tools and supplies.