Landscapes dominated by turf grasses offer little wildlife benefit, absorb very little stormwater, and require intense maintenance. Most suburban landscapes allow stormwater to runoff hard surfaces including lawns, increasing the runoff to our waterways via the stormsewer system that leads to pollution and flooding.

• Reduce lawn areas by planting native plants.

• Mow your grass higher to create a healthier root system.

• Test your soils before adding fertilizers and only use the minimum required.

• Water infrequently but deeply.

• Aerate periodically to undo soil compaction.

• Reduce herbicide use, a lawn can be more than turf  grasses.

Leave your grass clippings as a natural fertilizer.