For several decades, most lawns have been maintained with synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, they are watered frequently and the cut grass is thrown in the trash. This is what is called industrial lawns.
To get an eco-lawn, there is no need to start from scratch. All you need to do is invest in the quality of the soil, mainly by regenerating the populations of microorganisms and earthworms. It is easy by following steps 1 to 7 described in this article.
In addition, when you want to switch to eco-lawn, the first year, you must overseed using an eco-mix or a low-maintenance seed mix (available in good garden centers). This can contain clover, but also fescues, ryegrass or millet.
Seven steps to an eco-friendly lawn
Start by forgetting the image of the perfect “industrial” lawn. Made up of Kentucky bluegrass, it is very demanding in terms of fertilization, water and pesticides. To have an ecological and low-maintenance lawn, you have to change your expectations and adopt new practices.
Step #1: Encourage biodiversity, sow
In spring or fall, when the lawn is sparse or needs to be regenerated: overseed. That is, sow clover , fescues or a low-maintenance seed mix on the existing lawn. By choosing to integrate biodiversity, you get a lawn that requires less water and fertilizer. In addition, your lawn is more resistant to attacks by insect pests and the establishment of weeds. This means less water, less expense and less work for you.
Step #2: Raise the mower’s cutting height
Maintaining a lawn at a height of 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm) prevents weeds from spreading and controls insects. Since you should not remove more than one-third of the leaves at a time, wait until your lawn is 4 to 5 inches (10 to 12.5 cm) high before mowing. This will ensure that it stays green all summer long.
Step #3: Grasscycle, leave the grass clippings on the ground
By grasscycling, you return 30 to 50% of the soil's nitrogen needs to the soil. By feeding the organisms responsible for natural soil fertility and maintaining high soil moisture levels, you reduce the use of fertilizers and water. In addition, you reduce the organic matter transported to landfills. These diverted materials reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Step #4: Water infrequently
To avoid making it dependent, avoid watering your lawn before the droughts of June . Afterwards, if it does not rain (enough) and you have to water, do it infrequently, but deeply.
Step #5: Oxygenate your lawn
If your soil is compacted, in the spring or fall, aerate it using a device that removes the cores. Do not collect them, as they contribute to the health of the soil by feeding the microorganisms.
Step #6: Feed your soil
Topdress your lawn by spreading a few inches of quality compost. This will feed your soil and the organisms that live there, improve water retention, and reduce the need for fertilizers while improving soil quality. Also, use a lawnmower to shred the leaves in the fall. Earthworms and other soil organisms will recycle them into compost for free, which will enrich your soil.
Step #7: The right plant in the right place
In areas where lawns have difficulty growing, opt for ground cover plants (periwinkle, creeping thyme, pachysandra, etc.) or arrangements of perennials adapted to the prevailing conditions.
When we follow the instruction "The right plant in the right place", plants are more resistant to different stresses, including pests!
Clover: an essential ally
Very resistant, clover allows you to reduce the need for fertilizer (nitrogen) and pesticides. In addition, it provides excellent protection for the lawn against pests, such as hairy chinch bugs and white grubs. It saves time and money. Click here to learn how to sow clover in your lawn.
Where to find seeds for your lawn?
Most garden centers offer low-maintenance clover and grass seed .
En retardant l’utilisation de ma tondeuse (à essence) de quelques semaines je réduirai ainsi l’émission de GES dans l’atmosphère. C’est peu mais chaque geste compte.