To be certified, our backyard needs to provide food, shelter, water, and a place for young to thrive. Also, we need to be showing good stewardship in how we handle pesticides, water conservation, and compost, etc.
With a keen interest in seed saving, and growing healthier (non genetically modified) vegetables, I stopped using pesticides several years ago. This includes spraying for mosquitoes. One of the most natural (and effective) ways to combat insects is using cedar mulch! Not only does it smell wonderful, but the bugs will find somewhere else to burrow. Home Depot sells local Texas cedar that is amazingly cheap - about $2-something a bag. The few bags I had purchased from Walmart's were not only more expensive than Home Depot, but were disappointing in texture and smell. Not worth it, in my opinion.
Enjoying the outdoors from a screened porch was the best investment we had ever made!
Seasonal pools are considered a water source for the wildlife habitat. The pool fountain offers relaxing background noise of splashing water, and even cools the air. Colorful dragonflies, birds, and hovering bumble bees love to dive over the sparkling water.
Squirrel nest above the pool.
This is an old English ivy climbing the tree. Considered invasive to some, but I love it.
This is an invasive reed that I do need to take under control. Currently I have been harvesting it for "bamboo" projects which I will share about later.
Growth by the fence that harbors many bird's nests.
3 comments:
Have you already started swimming in your pool? I would have loved to dive into it after working in the garden this evening.
I haven't yet, but Pamela has. Been too busy gardening. When I'm done, I go inside and turn on the airconditioner :)
You have such a magnificent backyard! Thanks for all the inspiration!
Post a Comment