Eco-friendly Landscape Options for Spring

The local nurseries along Bronson Road in Fairfield, CT are brimming with the promise of spring. In the past week, truck loads of greenery have been unloaded and placed on nursery lots awaiting the rush of garden enthusiasts and landscape experts to begin the planting season. As you think about your personal landscape projects this year, be aware that with landscaping and gardening you can reduce your energy costs, avoid overconsumption of water resources, save money on your food bill and help the planet.

Reduce your home heating and cooling costs by planting trees and evergreens on the east, west and south sides of your home. Trees planted in strategic locations help create a windbreak for the home from the cold winter winds. In addition, well-placed deciduous trees can shade your home during hot summer months while allow warming sunshine to enter a home when warmth is needed in the winter.

When planting beds and gardens consider trying Xeriscaping. Using native and indigenous plants that are accustomed to the local climate can significantly reduce the need for watering, fertilizers and herbicides. Also, consider reducing the amount of grass on your property. Having that big, beautiful green lawn takes its toll on the earth’s resources and the environment.

If you really want to keep that lawn there are a few tips that can lessen its negative environmental impact. Switch to a push-type mower instead of a power mower. Lawn mower engines emit high levels of carbon monoxide and produce up to 5 percent of U.S. air pollution. Avoid cutting the lawn too short. The shorter the grass the less shade it provides the soil and increases the need for watering. Taller grass has a deeper root system which results in less water required to keep it healthy. Finally, leave the grass clippings on the lawn after you mow it. You won’t add to the town’s landfill and the clippings decompose and put nutrients back into the soil for a healthier lawn.

If you have a nice, sunny and protected area in your yard, consider planting a vegetable garden. The Obama family, taking the lead from former first lady Eleanor Roosevelt, is planting a vegetable garden on the White House lawn to remind us all that “growing more food locally, and organically, can lead to more healthful eating and reduce reliance on huge industrial farms that use more oil for transportation and chemicals for fertilizer.” You also save money at the grocery store produce aisle!

Now go out and get dirty………….



Please visit:

Oliver's Nursery, 1159 Bronson Rd., Fairfield, CT 203-259-5609

Colonial Gardens, 1174 Bronson Rd., Fairfield, CT 203-259-2722

Greenfield Hill Garden Center, 1285 Bronson Rd., Fairfield, CT 203-259-6828