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Landscape
Sustainability. Rodie, S. and A. Streich. 2000. University of
Nebraska-Lincoln Extension. Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
(Newsletter)
Nature sustains itself through the ability of species
to continue living and thriving while adjusting to environmental
changes. Designing systems that host a sustainable landscape plan can
be visually appealing as well as environmentally beneficial. The
purpose of a sustainable landscape is to enhance the local microclimate,
increase biodiversity, reduce resource inputs, reduce resource waste,
and maximize re-use of resources. These topics are addressed with
simplicity and include graphics to help plan a good-looking, sustainable
backyard landscape.
Sustainable
Landscaping for Homeowners, #442-05-007. 2005. The California
Integrated Waste Management Board. pp. 2. (Newsletter)
Yards that are managed well don’t just affect the
space within the fence but the streams and lakes that are within the
watershed. As homeowners, we can manage our yards to promote
biodiversity and ultimately healthy ecosystems. The California
Integrated Waste Management Board advises on designing, pruning,
fertilizing, and watering your yard to help with managing your yard in
sustainable ways with minimum hassle. For example, maintaining a
sustainable landscape doesn’t mean tearing out your grass and covering
the yard with soil; it means helping your yard grow and produce a broad
range of desirable plant species and habitats.
Native Plant Search
Engine. 2006. National Wildlife Federation:
http://enature.com/fieldguides/ then enter your zip code under step
2
The native plant search engine compiles lists of
native plant species for gardens and landscapes. See if your favorite
flowers are included on the native species list by sorting through this
compendium of flowers, shrubs, trees, and ground covers, sorted by
either the family, common, or scientific names. Native plants are
important to your backyard by promoting biodiversity and providing
healthy habitats for neighboring species of wildlife. Native plants are
also more easily maintained; they require only natural conditions of
light and water. The website also provides information on how to
integrate plant life and wildlife into your garden for a healthier
ecosystem, without additional artificial fertilizers and pesticides.
You may find this to be one of the easiest-to-use sites dealing with
plant biodiversity and organic gardening yet. | |
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