greener lawn maintenance

Greener Lawn Maintenance

Were you aware that old, defunct lawn mowers, even those that are not operating, still have some value? Remove the blade, motor, cords, wires and gas tank, leaving the four-wheeled caddy and its push handle. Secure a strong box to this and voila! – you now have a wheeled cart that is perfect for harvesting or toting material, cords or tools around the property.

The metal frame of most lawn mowers is recyclable. The wheels are a treasure to those that are handy around the workshop who can turn benches, tables, gates, chairs or shelving into movable, wheeled items. The motor and remaining parts might also be appreciated at a repair shop where they could be reused or potentially recycled.

There are alternatives to traditional lawns too - from wildflower mixes to low-growing ground covers that rarely need mowing. Landscaping a portion or the entire area with drought tolerant, wildlife supporting plants is a very environmentally active engagement that either eliminates or reduces mowing needs. And really, who couldn't use a little more time on their hands?

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To prevent heavy water consumption and potential disease, choose to water for 20 minutes per section of lawn either early in the morning (5-8 AM), or late evening (7-9 PM). Dethatch every 2-3 years and have someone aerate the lawn every 3 years. 

Reseed in the early spring where necessary; be sure to do this just after dethatching and mowing on the lowest setting – the seeds will fall to the ground easier and will be watered by natural spring rains. Neighbourhood etiquette says we shouldn’t mow before 7 AM or after 9 AM (we mow either 8 AM or 7 PM and save the clippings for either layering in the compost bin or to use as a water conserving, weed suppressing mulch in the gardens).

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Stay way from poisons and chemicals – there’s an organic, safe solution for almost every situation. Use organic fertilizers like alfalfa pellets and dried seaweed powder.

So get your exercise, reduce air and noise pollution; save yourself some money and have a healthier lawn. Either way, the world will breathe a little easier and maybe you will hear a songbird or two.

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