Backyarding Basics: 5 Tips from TurfMutt

Work in your yard, and it will work for you. This is one of the main messages from the TurfMutt Foundation. So how exactly do you accomplish this? Here are 5 tips from TurfMutt:

1. Remember real grass is best. Skip artificial turf and plant real grass. It’s better for the environment (not to mention it feels better on bare feet and paws!). Real grass helps sequester carbon from the atmosphere, reduces runoff by capturing and filtering rainwater, and cools our communities. Learn more about the many benefits of real grass here.

1. Know your climate zone. You want to put plants and grasses into your lawn that have evolved to thrive in your particular microclimate. Consult the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to determine which plants are most likely to succeed (with minimum input from you, no less!) in your region.

1. Create a balanced landscape.

Planting a variety of nectar and pollen-rich flowers that are appropriate for your climate will support pollinators, which rely on your backyard ecosystem for food and shelter. You can find the best plants for the wildlife in your region by consulting the National Wildlife Federation’s Native Plant Finder.

1. Right plant, right place.This is all about figuring out how you want to use your yard, and then planting accordingly. (Identifying your backyarding personality type can help!) Do you have pets and kids that need a grassy play area? Perhaps a shade tree is necessary, or some strategically planted shrubs for privacy. Choose the right plants for your climate and lifestyle and you will be rewarded with a purposeful green space the whole family will love.

1. Maintain your yard. Yardwork can be fun for the whole family, and you can call in a professional landscape for bigger jobs. Mow the grass, prune your flowering plants, trim your hedges and trees. Water wisely by choosing the cooler parts of the day to give your grass and plants a drink. 

For more, sign up for Mutt Mail, a monthly e-newsletter with backyarding tips and all the news from the TurfMutt Foundation here. To learn more about creating the yard of your dreams, visit TurfMutt.com. To learn more about the benefits of yards, parks and community green space, download the TurfMutt Foundation’s International Backyarding Fact Book here. Look for Mulligan the TurfMutt on the CBS Lucky Dog television show on Saturday mornings.