Earth-Kind® Landscaping
Earth-Kind® Landscaping, developed by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Services, combines the best of organic and traditional methods to produce sustainable quality landscaping while protecting the environment and maximizing enjoyment.
Earth-Kind® Landscaping promotes a balanced landscape ecosystem, with the goals of conserving water, reducing the need for and use of fertilizers and pesticides, and protecting the environment. Earth-Kind® is based on the twin pillars of understanding soil management and plant selection.
Landscaping for Energy Conservation
Soil improvement, wind breaks, wise plant selection and proper irrigation all contribute to an Earth-Kind® Landscape.
Water Conservation
Reduce water use through drip irrigation, regular irrigation audits, mulch, rainwater harvesting, raised bed gardening and native or adaptive low water plants.
Reduction of Yard Waste entering Landfills
Composting yard waste and leaves to improve your future soil and reduce landfill waste.
Reduction of Fertilizer & Pesticide Use
Implement IPM, use organic fertilizers and create a healthy habitate for animals and insects in your yard.
Create an Earth-Kind® garden of your own!
Start with the design:
1. Measure your space and draw it to scale on graph paper or using a computer program. Be sure to include existing structures, paved areas, existing landscaping, trees and easements.
2. Take note of the sun exposure (how many hours a day and is it morning or afternoon sun).
3. Plan for irrigation. Will this landscape be on drip irrigation, hand watered or soley rely on rain fall?
4. Decide on the purpose of your new garden. Is it to attract pollinators, create shade, hide an existing eyesore in your yard or something else?
Soil Management:
Understanding your soil is crucial in the creation of a thriving Earth-Kind® garden.
1. Observe what soil you have (clay, loamy, sandy etc.)
2. Send a sample of your soil to AgriLife to have it analysed. Soil testing can offer insight into what nutrients are needed to create a thriving garden.
3. Amend your soil! Add compost to your planting site. In the case of heavy clay, work expanded shale and compost into the top 6 inches of soil.
Plant Selection:
1. Zone the new garden space based on water use. High water needs will require weekly watering. Medium water needs will require watering once or twice a month. Low water needs will survive on fallen rainwater.
2. Research the mature size of a plant before adding it to your landscape plan.
3. Choose plants that will thrive in Texas. Look for Earth-Kind®, Texas Superstar or native plants. These have all been proven to thrive in Texas with lower water needs.
Maintenance:
1. One of the least expensive ways to add organic matter to your garden and keep moisture in is through mulch. Keep 3-4″ of mulch on your garden at all times.
2. If you have installed drip irrigation, check your irrigation lines and/or timer regularly to enure no leaks and that the amount of water being used is appropriate.
3. Monitor your plants regularly for pest and disease. If anything concerning is found use the Integrative Pest Management (IPM) system to handle the situation.
4. Prune plants only when needed and at the appropriate time of year.
5. Compost fallen leaves instead of bagging and sending to a landfill.
Visit the LGMG Demonstration & Research Garden
The LGMG Demo garden abides by many Earth-Kind® principals and has entire garden beds dedicated to Texas Superstars and Native Plants.
1410 W. Pearl St, Granbury, TX 76048
Interested in hosting an Earth-Kind® Talk?
Contact LGMG for an Earth-Kind® specalist to come and speak at your next garden event!
lakegranburymastergardeners@gmail.com
Looking for more information on Earth-Kind® Landscaping
Texas A&M AgriLife has publications on many facets of Earth-Kind® Landscaping. From irrigation to composting and native habitats to best fall practices. AgriLife has something for everyone!