Lately we have been encouraged to go green and make our lifestyles more eco-friendly. There are many attainable ways to transform your yard into a green-approved landscape. For starters, many opt to have Rain Gardens installed. These Rain Gardens produce both beauty and efficiency. They help capture the snow and rain water before it flows into storm drains. Recycling rain helps cut costs on water and helps us maintain a better water supply during the summer draught.

Using compost is also effective in planting. Items such as grass, leaves, fruit peels and coffee grinds and filters can be used in this process. This will help diminish some of the waste from the home and lawn. Recycled trees are often used for mulch and tend to be more economical. Do not forget to decorate your lawn with the solar powered landscaping lights. You can also save green by going green when you plant your own vegetables and fruit. It tastes better when the produce is harvested from your very own garden.

Lastly, there are tools that are very cost effective in managing your landscape. Reel Mowers are fantastic for going green. For those who like to do it themselves, these grass cutters are easy to operate. Because they do not require gas, they are pollutant free and the perfect tool for you lawn care. Also, electric lawn mowers and leaf blowers contribute to the eco-friendly list. These tools can be purchased at both retail and hardware stores.

Q & A:
Q: In what way can you help maintain your landscaping while you save money? :
A: Brian of Tri State Landscaping, who has been in the business since 1986, advises people to maintain their gutters. A clean gutter can save your foundation from cracking and your plants from dying.

Q: Besides rain gardens, what is another way to go green in your yard? :
A: The pros at JJD Contracting suggest pervious concrete pavement. It allows water to seep into the ground rather than run into the house, and it also renews the groundwater.

Q: In what way can I contribute to conserve water during droughts? :
A: Simply by purchasing rain barrels. Again, instead of rain water flowing into the storm drain, you can trap the water in the barrel. After the water has been conserved, it could be used for watering the lawn and plants. Many gallons of water would be saved at this point.

Tri-State Landscaping can be reached by calling 610-892-6966.

JJD Contracting can be reached at 610-364-9653 in Delaware County and at 610-525-9654 on the Main Line.