Everybody needs a relaxing hobby to exercise their mind, body, and spirit. Gardening, in particular, offers the perfect blend of creativity and physical activity with an added bonus of environmental and financial benefits.
If their incredible four-year yard transformation is any indication, this Redditor from the r/NativePlantGardening subreddit knows these benefits very well.
OP shared a bundle of images showing their small yard transforming from a simple grass patch in 2021 to a blooming, beautiful native plant garden.
Undergoing a complete natural yard makeover like this is a long, multi-year process. However, the mental health benefits that come with nurturing a growing outdoor space make every step worthwhile.
So, what is a natural yard? It's an outdoor space that consists of plants and grass native to the geographical location.
Instead of relying on manicured lawns, heavy irrigation, and constant chemical inputs, a natural garden incorporates native plants that come with a host of benefits.
Financially, transforming a traditional monoculture lawn into a native alternative like OP did can be one of the smartest long-term investments you can make in your property.
Native landscapes naturally require less water, fertilizer, and chemical treatments. This translates into meaningful cost savings year after year. Rather than pouring money into constant irrigation and upkeep, you can put that money towards a different project or enjoy a lower monthly utility bill.
On an environmental level, native landscapes contribute to healthier ecosystems. They support local pollinators, improve soil health, reduce runoff, and help restore natural biodiversity.
Plus, planting vegetation that is native to the area makes for stunning yard aesthetics that any homeowner would love to have.
TCD Picks » Upway Spotlight
💡Upway makes it easy to find discounts of up to 60% on premium e-bike brands
|
If you were to switch from a grass lawn to a more natural option, which of these factors would be your primary motivation?
Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. |
Making it look better 🌱 "Gorgeous," one Reddit user replied under OP's post.
"There is something very sweet about your space. Nice work," another user wrote.
Beyond just growing native plants, other eco-friendly lawn care tactics can further reduce maintenance demands while creating a healthier yard.
For example, planting buffalo grass offers a drought-tolerant alternative that uses a fraction of the water of traditional turf.
And xeriscaping blends drought-resistant plants and gravel to create striking, water-saving landscapes that perform well even in harsh climates.
Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices — and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.
Cool Picks
