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Just ask any man, woman or child who has spent hours pushing a lawnmower on a hot summer day why we are so fascinated with well-manicured lawns. Most likely, (as perspiration drips down their overheated forehead!) they will shrug their shoulders, turn their sweaty palms upward and give the universal sign for “who knows?” On the surface, the logic behind this activity of cultivating acres of grass with the inevitable necessity of cutting these same plants a short time later approaches the generally accepted definition of insanity.
Most experts in the art and science of residential landscaping point to the 1700s when French and English gardeners introduced the concept of closely cut, well-kept grass areas in gardens. Drawing on the word “launde,” which referred to a grassy woodland clearing, they coined the term “lawn” in the process. Later, U.S. President Thomas Jefferson, an avid horticulturist, introduced this concept on the land surrounding his home of Monticello.
Since these early days of lawn cultivation and care, millions if not trillions of gallons of the limited resource of water, not to mention fuel to power these grass clippers, have been invested in well-manicured yards.
Recently, however, our love of lawns is on the rocks. More and more homeowners, in large and small communities throughout the world, are adopting a new landscaping strategy, and it’s going wild.
What This Means for You — Embracing nature with a wildlife-friendly garden and designing outdoor spaces in harmony with the environment, allows homeowners to not only create a vibrant habitat for wildlife but also reap numerous benefits, including emotional tranquility. In the process, limited natural resources such as water, fuel and electricity can be saved.
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According to the plant website Picture This, “One of the key advantages of a natural garden is its ability to nurture biodiversity. By incorporating native plants, trees, and shrubs, we provide essential food and shelter for a diverse range of species. In turn, these creatures play vital roles in pollination, pest control, and seed dispersal, helping to maintain a healthy ecosystem.
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“It is a delightful sight to witness butterflies fluttering around colorful flowers or birds building nests in the branches of a mature tree. By welcoming these creatures into our gardens, we become stewards of the natural world.
“But the benefits of wildlife-friendly gardens extend beyond supporting biodiversity. These gardens also provide crucial steppingstones for wildlife in urban areas, allowing them to move and thrive in fragmented landscapes. With the increasing loss of natural habitats due to urbanization, creating green oases in our own backyard becomes even more important. In doing so, we contribute to the conservation efforts of endangered species and help restore balance to our environment.”
Apart from the environmental impact, this website points to other personal benefits of this urban rewilding. A move toward nature can bring a sense of peace and tranquility to living spaces. It notes, “The presence of lush foliage, the soothing sound of rustling leaves, and the gentle buzz of bees create a serene ambiance that can improve our mental wellbeing. Research has shown that being in nature can reduce stress levels, enhance mood, and boost cognitive function. By designing a garden that mimics the wild, we can create a sanctuary where we can escape the demands of the modern world and reconnect with our primal instincts.”
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The most important consideration for establishing an urban garden that encourages wildlife is common sense. There are a few general suggestions from the editors of Picture This.
“First, choose native plants that are adapted to your local climate and soil conditions. These plants are more likely to thrive and attract local wildlife. Secondly, incorporate a variety of plant species to provide a diverse range of habitats and food sources.
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Additionally, consider adding water features such as a pond, natural pool,or birdbath to attract amphibians and birds. Lastly, minimize the use of pesticides and fertilizers, as these can harm beneficial insects and disrupt the natural balance of your garden.”
The Thrive Lot website adds, “Think of a wildlife garden as a mini forest in your backyard. It’s not your typical landscaped yard with a few trees and a lawn. Instead, it’s a carefully designed system that mimics nature.
“Picture layers of plants, from tall trees down to ground cover. Each layer plays a part in creating a diverse, interconnected ecosystem. Unlike traditional yards that often use chemicals and offer little to wildlife, these gardens are built to support pollinators, birds, and other creatures.”
Shelter is another consideration for a natural garden that encourages birds, butterflies, bees and other pollinating insects. This can be achieved by incorporating features such as birdhouses, bat boxes, or even piles of rocks and logs. Brick structures, built from recycled or newly manufactured brick can also help little creatures skedaddle away from predators, find a place to rest, and raise their young. Creating a range of habitats, such as leaf piles, dense shrubs, and tall grasses, will attract a diverse range of wildlife, from insects to mammals.
Garden gate constructed of Cherokee Brick’s Old Savannah Tumbled, sold by Acme Brick, Tile & Stone, at a Beaumont, TX home.
Finally, a wildlife garden can benefit by using materials that have a high thermal mass. Here’s how. Thrive Lot notes, “Thermal mass can help you extend your garden’s growing season and stabilize temperatures naturally. By using materials like stone, water, or brick, you can store heat during the day and release it at night, protecting plants from extreme temperature swings.”
The effects of the COVID pandemic are still being analyzed by experts in dozens of professional fields – from medicine to architecture. However, one trend, which got its start during this “stay-at-home” period is the rise in the popularity of outdoor entertaining. For example, here are five ways homeowners can have more fun with these outdoor spaces.
It’s important to note that having a well-designed outdoor entertainment space, with the latest grills, fire features, and patio designs along with having urban gardens that encourage wild plants, birds and insects are not mutually exclusive. Peaceful coexistence is imminently possible. All that is required is a little distance between the wildlife in the urban garden and the high life of the outside entertainment space!
The peace, tranquility and “untamed bliss” of this urban rewilding space will be worth the effort. Take it outside and take a deep breath.
Need some great ideas for your outside entertainment space? We have ‘em, right here.
