Gardening Tips and Resources
Turn Your Yard Into A Healthy Yard
◆ Landscape with native plants. Select species that t the sun, soil and water conditions in your yard. Healthy yards are complex systems that support people, plants and animals.
◆ Healthy soil means healthy plants that can withstand pests and disease.Consider testing your soil to learn what you may need to improve it.
◆ Water your lawn deeply when needed and at the right time of day.Use mulch and compost to help retain moisture and add nutrients to your garden beds.
◆ In most cases, you don’t need chemicals to grow a beautiful garden. Avoid routine use of herbicides and fertilizers. Identify problems, then choose the least toxic solution.
◆ Start now. There are many ways to achieve a thriving, natural garden but it starts with deciding to take action. Redefine perfection: A healthy yard is a beautiful yard.
Three Easy Steps to Take Today
1
Ask your lawn care professional to switch to organic or natural gardening techniques.
2
If you enjoy doing your own gardening, consult our website for tips and strategies.
3
Take the healthy yard pledge and help spread the word!
RHYP Events
1/27/17 How to Talk to Your Landscaper About Going Organic at Rye Nature Center
2/10/16 What's Under Your Lawn Presentation at Wainwright House
5/6/16 Compost Workshop at Rye Nature Center
- Compost Presentation by Taro Ietaka, Director of Conservation and Land Stewardship, Rye Nature Center
- Compost Bin Types
- Vermicomposting Facts
- Red Wiggler Worm Facts
- Carbon to Nitrogen Ratios for Composting
11/17/16 Healthy Yard Awards Ceremony
Useful Links
These sites contain more information and tips about healthy gardening and landscaping practices:
- "How to Talk to Your Lawn-Care Professional," Little Garden Club of Rye
- Wild Ones Organization
- Rye Garden Club
- USDA Guide for finding local plants
- Plant Invaders of the Mid-Atlantic - Guide
General Lawn Care
- DEC Organic Landscaping Pamphlet
- USDA Organic Lawn Care Tips
- Grassroots Environmental Education - Organic Lawns
- National Wildlife Federation - Organic Gardening
Rain Barrels