There is a new movement underfoot to replace the traditional lawn with a "greener" alternative. The Lawn Reform Coalition, which consists of nine gardening and environmental activists and advocates from across the country, is helping to lead the way. One member of the coalition is Susan Morrison, a Northern California Master Gardener, speaker, and landscape designer. She and the others of the coalition, point out that our modern lawns are not sustainable because:
Pesticides, herbicides, and excess fertilizers pollute the environment.
They are water guzzling, as half or more of all potable water is used on lawns in the summer.
Frequent mowing with gas-powered mowers creates air pollution.
They do not provide habitat for wildlife, as lawns are single-species monoculture.
However, there is good news. It's a book called "The American Meadow Garden: Creating a Natural Alternative to the Traditional Lawn." The Bay Area author, John Greenlee, is an experienced nurseryman, horticulturalist, and designer. This book, a culmination of years of experience, can help the homeowner and landscape designer alike in "walking more softly on the planet."
"Why plant a bad lawn instead of a good meadow?" Asks Greenlee. A good meadow is a planting of regionally appropriate grasses, perennials, and bulbs. Together, when well designed, they can create micro-ecosystems. This not only provides habitat for wildlife, but can also give us a more deeply satisfying life with wild in it. Alive with insects and birds, and the movement of wind and light, the meadow garden is sure to delight.
Contained with the eight chapters is all the information needed to create a meadow of one's own. From site selection to plant selection, and even maintenance, he has covered it all in a most inspiring way. It's evident now that Greenlee is not only the Grass Guru, but he is also the "man", or should I say... "Green Man." This book, filled with information and inspiration, will guide our way to the "greener pastures" we all wish to leave as a legacy to our children.
Last but not least, the book's photographs provide a visual feast. This is thanks to our own North Bay photographer, Saxon Holt, who images are reason enough to put this book on your bookshelf.
Comments
Dear Mr. Fultz,
Your photograghs of meadow gardens and book review on The American Meadow Garden would be something I would be interested in pursueing in my garden. I have lived in my home for eighteen years and have a back yard that is calling to be planted.I would like to get started planting and need to be on a budget. Would you be able to reccomend where to begin.thank you
I'll be getting a copy of the book to read. It looks like "meadow gardening" is planned natural garden; pruned, laid out and selected to fit the local environment.
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