|
2) Get Grilling On The Patio
By taking your culinary expertise
out onto the patio, you are saving cooling energy. Because the
air conditioner won’t need to compete with the kitchen appliances,
this is a big energy savings. Grill on the BBQ, cook over an
open fire pit or even in an outdoor fireplace. There are plenty
of recipes to taste and even more wonderful chances to enjoy
a meal on the patio with your family.
3) Natural Materials Work Best
For your outdoor surfaces and
hardscapes, building with natural materials will help to maintain
an eco friendly design. Stone patios made with flagstone or slate
are beautiful. Wooden decking can be environmentally friendly
as well, when sustainable timber is used. If that timber also
has a natural rot resistance you can avoid toxic paints and stains
– cedar decking is a great choice that turns a classic grey
color with time. Thyme planted among patio pavers are comfortable
and low maintenance. Bamboo, a highly renewable and abundant
natural resource, works well for your fences and other patio
elements.
4) Landscape With Natives
Planting flowers, shrubs, grasses
and trees that are native to your area will cut down on your
water usage and the need for pesticides. Conserve fresh water
and your own energy at the same time by using natives in your
yard. The local birds, butterflies and wildlife will enjoy the
habitat as well.
5) Green Lawns Are Changing
Our western culture is gradually
becoming less fascinated with the perfect lawn, as the environmental
effects of keeping it that way are beginning to show. Skip St.
Augustine and plant native varieties for less maintenance or
allow clovers and plantains to intermix with traditional sod
for a soft green surface that will be more durable and naturally
healthy in your yard.
6) Water Features for Fun And
Atmosphe
Including a water feature in
your backyard design adds a sense of calm that’s hard to
match. Solar-powered fountains are good options and koi ponds
provide a great spot for some wildlife of your own and a stellar
water garden. Be sure to include a rain barrel system in the
yard for easy and efficient watering of your containers, hanging
baskets and flower beds.
7) Build With Certified Wood
From furniture to decking and
fence materials, wood is often found in the yard. Making sure
the wood that you choose is from a sustainably harvested forest
is a step in the right direction. Green garden décor is
built using certified wood, including red cedar that’s known
for its resistance to rot and a distinct durability. Choosing
these types of wood helps to maintain the environment and keep
the wildlife safe from harm.
8) Long Term Gain For The Planet
And You
Settling on low quality, disposable
furniture is not for you. Purchase well made pieces that are
built to last and avoid contributing them to the landfill. Quality
garden décor and backyard furniture will keep you happy
for years and can even be passed along to family and friends
when it’s time for a change. Durable products maintain a
good value and you may be surprised when you sell or donate quality
backyard items during a redecorating.
9) Always Bank On The Classics
For a strong decor foundation,
include classic styling in the main, larger pieces such as the
tables, umbrellas and lounge chairs. Outdoors and in, the patio
furniture will set the tone of your yard and can be dressed up
with bold accents and simple accessories. Indoor porch furniture
can have the same feel as outdoor, bringing the natural feeling
into your sunroom. Adding flower beds and containers full of
colorful blooms helps with seasonal themes. Try zinnias and primrose
for brightness or delphinium and hyssop for cooler tones.
10) Practice Five “R’s”
In Your Yard
You’re probably aware of
“reduce, reuse and recycle,” but don’t leave out
“repair and redecorate.” Shop for things you can keep
a long time to reduce waste and reuse quality aged furniture.
Examine whether an item can be recycled when disassembled. And
take the time to fix up and spruce up your existing pieces to
have the ultimate green garden and yard. Leave products made
from petroleum in the stores and you’ll be leaving some
toxic pollutants behind. Do your part and take these steps to
go green in your yard. It’s simple and rewarding, knowing
your family will live and play in a healthier environment both
today and in the future. |
Refer
