Xeriscaping

Environment

Xeriscape Gardening

Principle #4 - Practical Turf Areas

Lawns can add to the enjoyment of our yards, to property values, and help cool our homes in the summer, reducing energy for air-conditioners. However, most lawns are much larger than required and consume high amounts of water in comparison to most other plantings. (See Xeriscape Plants for water requirements.)

Take a look at your lawn and ask yourself these questions:

How much of my lawn is actually walked or played on?

Is it there because I don't know what else to do with that area?

Are there areas that are difficult or dangerous to mow?

Could sections of the lawn be replaced by groundcovers, shrubs or ornamental grasses that need less water and maintenance?

Are there areas where hard surfaces like walkways or decks would make the living space more practical?

Here are additional reasons to reduce large areas of lawn:

Reduce Water Pollution
It is estimated that 60% of the nitrogen added to lawns ends up in our water supplies due to runoff from over-fertilizing and over-watering lawns. Pesticide use on lawns also contributes to water pollution through run-off. In the US, an estimated 17 million gallons of fuel are spilled each year while filling outdoor power equipment.

Reduce Air Pollution
The amount of volatile organic compounds emitted by a 3.5 hp lawnmower running for one hour is equal to the emissions of a car being driven 550 kms.

Reduce Noise Pollution
The less area of lawn you have to mow, the less disruption to the neighbourhood.

Reduce Inflow to Our Landfills
Grass clippings should be left on the lawn or composted, however some still makes its way to our landfill.

See Healthy Lawn Care Tips

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Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services
955 Concordia Way
Kamloops, BC V2C 6V3
ph (250) 828 3888
fax (250) 828 3640
email healthylandscapes@kamloops.ca

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