Rethinking Lawn

Lawn: Grow, don’t mow

Over the past couple of weeks we have suggested a rethinking of the presence of lawn in the landscape. (If you missed it, check out the links below.) With the sharing of this information and feedback from our followers, we are optimistic that in the coming years, landowners will act on this noble venture. It isn’t something we expect to happen overnight, but with frequent advocacy we hope to witness this transformation. The basis of what we have recently focused on is the history of lawns in America and the detriment they cause to our environment. From noise pollution via lawn mowers to being the ideal habitat for the invasive Japanese Beetle, I think we can all agree that it’s time we give lawns their long overdue judgment day. We believe it begins with communities placing high importance on the development and maintenance of public parks and green spaces. Sure, having our own lawn space seems convenient, but is it really logical or sensible? So what is the alternative? For starters, having public types of recreation within a reasonable distance of our homes and workspaces is paramount. Perhaps then we won’t feel the need for large lawns of our own. While we wait for these ideals to become the norm, it’s up to both the land planner and property owner to make expansive lawns a thing of the past.

In the meantime, here’s a plant of interest that will get you well on your way to kicking your lawn to the curb.

Barren Strawberry (Waldsteinia fragarioides) is a shade and drought tolerant native and can also tolerate periodic foot traffic.

Hopefully you’ll join us next week when we review our trip to the New England Grows conference in Boston!

Lose the lawn?

http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/17387539/list/the-case-for-losing-the-traditional-lawn

https://www.facebook.com/zacharybergerdesign