Out with the green: US homeowners are making their gardens drought-resistant
Water-resistant organic gardens are increasingly being seen, replacing the lush green lawns famous in suburban America
In response to the drought affecting California and other states, many property owners are transforming their green spaces. Water-resistant organic gardens are increasingly being seen, replacing the lush green lawns famous in suburban America.
Gardens in California and other states are evolving, as individuals attempt to cope with the recurring droughts that have plagued the region for several years. Back in June California officials asked residents to limit outdoor water use, an unprecedented measure in a region where lush green lawns are often refreshed with water daily.
This initiative played a role in helping reduce water consumption by 11% in the state in July 2022.
Covering lawns
While early solutions to the lawn issue looked to some ecologically questionable alternatives, such as synthetic lawns and grass paint, some homeowners are choosing to ethically transform their front yards. Rather than maintaining a yard exclusively featuring grass, they are tearing out or partially covering portions of the lawn and creating new drought-resistant segments. Some gardens are even designed on the principle of mound cultivation.Specifically, residents are covering the ground with tarps to prevent grass from growing back into new plantings. Even cardboard can be used, Shawn Maestretti, founder of ethical landscape design firm Studio Petrichor, told KQED.
Last Updated :
August 17, 22 12:08:11 PM IST