Perhaps this spring is the perfect time to give your yard some love and replace your grass with native drought tolerant plants. Replacing grass with native drought tolerant plants can save water, around 30-50%. Check out the EPA’s plant lists to help you find the best plants for you location.
In addition to saving water, native plants can support animal habitats and promote biodiversity. According to Audubon.org, over the past century, “…the continental U.S. lost a staggering 150 million acres of habitat and farmland to urban sprawl.” Native plants can help restore biodiversity by providing habitats for birds, nectar for pollinators, protective shelter for mammals, and food for wildlife. The Audubon Society’s Native Plant Database is another great resource to find the best options for your area.
If you want to take your habitat to the next level, check out the Butterfly Garden Certification program. It’s as easy as making sure your garden meets certain requirements, then applying for the certification. For the cost of $25, they send you a sign to display in your yard, which can help raise awareness to your community. And if you don't have a yard there are many benefits to growing a balcony garden or herbs or other plants in your household. So either way spring is a good time to polish up your green thumb!
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