It may seem like something straight out of a horror flick, but there are several reasons to celebrate “Swarmageddon” – the once-every-17-year emergence of the Brood II cicadas happening on the east coast this summer. Over the next few months swarms of these insects will make their above-ground debut, offering a glimpse of Mother Nature [...]
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I’m TurfMutt, the Caped Crusader – Out to Save the Planet, One Yard at a Time.
Landscaping ideas for small yards
Small yards can be challenging. How do you know the plants you choose at the store will mature to be the right size, scale and shape for your space? Here are a few tips to keep in mind for those with a not-so-big-backyard. Small yards are often shady yards, so select plants that tolerate shade [...]
Create a Rain Garden in Your Yard to Reduce Runoff
A rain garden is a great – and beautiful – idea for places in your yard that are near a storm water runoff source like a downspout, driveway or entrance area to a home. Rain gardens use plants that can tolerate having soaked roots; they are good for the environment because they reduce rain runoff [...]
How to use landscaping to increase privacy
For most of the country the temperatures are warming up, beckoning homeowners to spend more time outside enjoying their backyard spaces. But the tranquility of the outdoor oasis can be marred by nosy neighbors, close quarters and limited lot sizes. Consider these unique landscaping ideas to make your private outdoor spaces even more private. Perhaps [...]
what does landscaping have to do with home safety? Find out here.
Learn why landscaping can help protect your home from intruders and how to properly landscape for safety.
Environmental Education Resources
We wanted to point out a great resource for teachers – Classroom Earth. This group helps teachers of all subject areas integrate environmental education into their classrooms. A program of NEEF, the National Environmental Education Foundation. One resource is Planet Connect, a component of Classroom Earth, which is an online portal where high school students [...]
Mow the lawn and become less stressed (no, really!)
Australian researchers have found that the scent of freshly cut grass is working wonders on our mental state. The researchers discovered that when grass is cut, it releases chemicals that make people feel less stressed and relaxed. It can even help prevent the mental decline of old age! According to the study, the scent works [...]
Just in Time for Vernal Equinox: Spring Landscape Tips
The first day of spring is March 20th, and that means it’s time to start thinking about getting your yard ready for the warmer season. Here are a few tips to help get you started. Remove debris – including sticks and leaves – from the lawn. Start checking on your lawn and garden equipment [...]
Thanks for Participating in TurfMutt’s “Paw It Forward” Sweepstakes
The TurfMutt “Paw It Forward” Sweepstakes has wrapped up, with more than 600 people entering for the two $250 contributions to an animal charity! The winners will be announced at the end of the week. On behalf of shelter animals everywhere, all of us here at TurfMutt thank you for participating. Did you know that [...]
Enter TurfMutt’s Sweepstakes & 5 other ways to help your local animal shelter.
TurfMutt’s “Paw It Forward” Sweepstakes – where you can enter to win a $250 donation to your favorite animal shelter – is just one way you can help your local shelter. Here are five things you can donate to your local shelter to help out and “go green” by reusing and recycling all at [...]
