January 2nd, 2012
Every year the holidays bring the same debate: Is it more eco-friendly to use a live fresh-cut evergreen or a reusable faux tree?
And the answer is that the most eco-friendly yuletide solution is to decorate a potted live tree, which is planted after the holidays.
The next choice would be to buy a live Christmas tree, and have it mulched after the holidays.
Pine and fir tree mulch is commonly used in civic garden areas or even as fuel. In recent years, people have come up with a variety of creative ways to reuse even whole discarded Christmas trees, according to the National Christmas Tree Association (NCTA).
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May 10th, 2010
You may have to outsmart your smart controller to keep lawn watering in check (Photo: Viorel Railean, dreamstime)
Using less water at home is a snap indoors if you have the cash. Just install modern low-flow toilets, a state-of-the-art washing machine and dishwasher and a conserving water heater. Outdoors, where 50 to 75 percent of residential water is consumed, the solution is trickier. Most people over-water their yards, but watering less may not be enough.
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March 15th, 2010
By Chris Reinolds
Composting can be as simple or as complicated as you make it. From piling green and brown things in a corner of the yard
Compost bins need aeration, like this metal mesh enclosure. (Photo: Bureau of Environmental Services, Howard County, Md.)
to buying that perfect compost bin, you’ll generate the same end result. Those of us who turn and nurture our piles can expect more compost in a faster time period, but regardless our gardens will benefit from a little or a lot.
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Barbara Kessler
Andrew Winston
Danielle Nierenberg
Anthony Swift
