al fresco, escaping into nature or even sequestering carbon dioxide to reduce climate change. To be successful, choices must be appropriate to the climate, plant hardiness zone, local zoning ordinances and homeowner association rules. Also consider the soil quality and acidity, moisture content and whether plantings will be in full sun or shade, or both. The right regional native plants often include grasses and ferns, herbaceous plants like fl owering perennials and woody ones like shrubs, vines and trees. Native plants provide shelter and food for wildlife and help preserve a sense of place. “Work with a professional landscaper in your area, ideally a member of the Association for Professional Landscape Designers,” advises Greenlee. Tap a local university extension service, master gardener and garden club for local expertise, often available at no or low cost via classes or club membership.
ECO YARDS
Turning Lawns into Native Landscapes
by Lisa Kivirist and John D. Ivanko “
American Meadow Garden, who notes that most monoculture turf lawns never even get used. His company, Greenlee and Associates, in Brisbane, California, designs residential and other meadows throughout the U.S. as an engaging alternative. Many other appealing options likewise use native plants appropriate to the local climate. For instance, replacing Kentucky bluegrass, Bermuda grass or another non- native species with natives can deliver drought resistance and lower irrigation needs; eliminate any need for fertilizers or toxic pesticides; reduce or eliminate
T
raditional turf lawns are an ecological nightmare,” says John Greenlee, author of The
labor-intensive and often polluting mowing and edging; enhance the beauty of a home; and attract birds, butterfl ies and other wildlife.
Before replacing a lawn, determine the desired result. It may simply be achieving a low- maintenance, lawn- free yard; growing food like vegetables, herbs, fruit or nuts; or supplying ample fl owers for a fresh weekly bouquet. Other benefi ts might include increasing privacy, dining
20 Central Florida natural awakenings
Hot and Humid Subtropics In sunny and well-drained areas of the South, Penick suggests Gulf muhly, an ornamental grass. “Its fall blooms resemble pink cotton candy fl oating above its green leaves.” In Florida, fl owering sunshine mimosa with fern-like leaves and other natural groundcovers are low maintenance. “Basket grass is a low, evergreen
grass-like plant with long, spaghetti-type leaves that puddle around it, suitable for shade or partially shaded areas,” advises Penick. “It’s slow to grow, but highly
photos by Pam Penick
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