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HEALTHY LAWN & GARDEN
PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES

 

Since 1995, SOCRRA and SOCWA have worked in cooperation with the Oakland County MSU Extension, the Wayne County MSU Extension and the Metropolitan Detroit Landscape Association to identify the basic principles and practices for environmentally-sound home gardening and lawn care. Principles and practices include:

Principle #1: Build fertile soil with organic matter

  • Use compost to enrich your soil.
  • Use natural mulches to reduce weeds, moderate soil temperatures, retain moisture and help sustain soil life.

Principle #2: Select plants suited for the site and climate conditions

  • Identify site conditions before planting. Consider factors such as sun vs. shade; exposure to wind; drainage; soil texture.


Principle #3: Diversify the garden to encourage beneficial insects and natural pest resistance

  • Select plants which are pest-resistant and disease resistant.
  • Mix and diversify plantings to discourage pest infestations and to attract beneficial insects.
  • Periodically move or rotate flowers and vegetables to encourage a diversity of soil microorganisms and nutrients.
  • Consider native plants which often require less water, fertilizer and pesticides.

Principle #4: Provide nutrients and water to sustain healthy plants

  • Don't guess ... soil test!
  • Use slow-release fertilizers which save time, help protect water quality and gradually release more nutrients over the growing season.

Principle #5: Recycle yard clippings on-site

  • Make your own compost with shredded leaves (50%); green clippings (25%); and soil or compost (25%). Keep the pile moist and periodically mix.
  • Use leaves and grass clippings as a natural mulch or dig into the fall garden.
  • Rake out the garden in the spring and fall to remove insect eggs and to diversify mulches.

Principle #6: Minimize the use of insecticides, herbicides and other pesticides. Practice Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

  • Select pest-resistant plant varieties.
  • If disease and pest problems occur, consider removing the plant. If this is not possible, consider all options and select the least-toxic control.
  • Establish a threshold of tolerance for pests and plant damage. Identify problems before reacting or initiating treatment.
 

Copyright © 2001 [SOCWA]. All rights reserved.
Revised: February 29, 2008.