Illustration by
Laurie Hewitt
Native plants
may be defined as those species that were present when
the first Europeans arrived in the New World. Because they are well
adapted to local climate and soil types, native
plants require less maintenance such as trimming, watering and fertilizer
applications. The most beneficial plants are those species that are
native to your particular region or state. This ultimately saves time,
labor and money. By planting native plants at home, we can reduce the
amount of nutrients and chemicals running off our yards and gardens
into local waterways, helping to improve water quality.
Habitat
refers to the food, water, cover and nesting sites all
living creatures need to survive. Forests, meadows and wetlands are
rapidly being converted to other uses to accommodate the growing number
of people. Whether developed for homes or businesses, the result is
the same: wildlife habitat is lost. We can help to restore wildlife
habitat one backyard at a time. Backyard habitats provide safe havens
for animals to live and move among. We can provide food and cover by
planting a variety of locally native plants. Nesting boxes and sources
of water also provide habitat components critical for wildlife.
Integrated Pest Management
(IPM) is the combination of biological, physical and
chemical methods to control pests. IPM offers a variety of choices to
manage pests. Many natural and biological controls exist. IPM includes
proper identification of pests, using beneficial insects and other animals
to get rid of undesirable pests, use of organic pesticides and careful
and directed pesticide use. While IPM does not totally eliminate chemical
pesticides, it can reduce the volume used on the land. This approach
minimizes impacts on wildlife and the Chesapeake Bay.
BayScaping also involves long
term planning.
Don't try to change your whole
yard all at once. Start small and build over time. Decide what kind
of landscape you want in 5, 10 or even 20 years and then work towards
these goals. By looking at the big picture, you can design a landscape
that meets your needs, expectations, budget and time while incorporating
the BayScapes principles. Planning involves four basic steps: inventory
existing site conditions; realistically plan uses for different parts
of your yard; select plants that are best
suited for each use; and determine costs of maintenance.
By BayScaping, you can reduce the time and labor spent
maintaining your yard, create wildlife habitat, reduce pollutants that
your yard contributes to waterways, and even save money.
Interested in planning your own BayScape?
For more information or to
receive a BayScapes Information Packet, contact: the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service at (410) 573-4593; any Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay office;
or the Chesapeake Regional Information System (CRIS) at (800) 662-CRIS.
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