We are aware of the phrase “eco-friendly”, however, many people take it with a pinch of salt. It seems that unless we’re actively burning under the rays of the sun, or swimming in melted icecaps, the pollution and environment issues aren’t really affecting us, and are, therefore, no cause for alarm.
Even though there is more activism, it seems as if human beings are still forgetting how to care for Mother Nature. We have a responsibility for our planet, and should care for it accordingly. Even if all you do is recycle, you’re doing something. However, if you feel like you ought to do more, then here’s how you can create an eco-friendly backyard.
Grow Your Own Produce
Most produce is grown with the help of pesticides. Pesticides are incredibly harmful, both to humans and the environment. Although they stop pesky slugs from eating your crops, they can increase chances of cancer, while poisoning wildlife, damaging soil and decreasing crop yield. Growing your own fruits and vegetables is more nutritious and can decrease the number of carbon emissions from transporting produce to supermarkets. If you have a small greenhouse in your backyard you may want to look at ways to help your crop by using some greenhouse plastic coverings to assist with speeding up growth.
To increase your chances of producing quality fruits and vegetables, invest in a hydroponics system from HydroHobby. This is an effective and efficient means of growing your produce, and can make your plants grow fifty percent faster than planting in regular soil. Your plant’s yield can also be increased.
When growing plants, make sure to stick to native and local breeds – this improves your success rate and will attract local biota. Native plants also require less attention and do not need help from fertilizers or pesticides.
Recycle Furniture for Outdoor Use
Outdoor furniture is on trend: people no longer settle for wooden benches with minimal padding, or seating that’ll leave lines imprinted onto the backs of your legs. Instead, couches with plush cushions and pillows are gracing many homeowner’s patio and decking.
Furniture, though, takes a lot of supplies from the environment; therefore, reuse and recycle the furniture you’re replacing inside your home. Perform DIY so they’re ready for the outside, such as wood treatments and a fresh coat of paint. By reusing old furniture, you’re limiting waste.
Less Lawn
Mowing, watering and fertilizing lawns can contribute to your carbon footprint. If you use a self-propelled push mower and mow for an hour, then you may as well be driving your car for 200 miles. Therefore, if your garden is mostly grass, transform it into something else. Implement decking or create a concrete slab patio. If you want to keep greenery, then have potted plants or assign specific plants which do not need a lot of water.
There are many how-to guides on laying a patio circulating the web, however, if you wish to do it yourself, it is a lot of work. Hiring a professional may be best.
Build a Compost Heap
First, pick the best spot to place your compost bin; it should be on level ground which is well-drained so excess water disappears. Then, clear the area and place pallets around the designated spot. Three pallets will do; it will stop your compost from spilling, while keeping one end open so you can easily add waste. Building a compost heap doesn’t have to be difficult!
