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There are many ways you can make your yard more environmentally-friendly. The resources provided below will help you learn more about what you can do to reduce the use of chemicals, pesticides and water while improving the condition of your yard and garden.
Pesticide Alternatives
Learn about non-chemical and non-toxic alternatives to pesticides that focus on the use of beneficial biological plants and insects to address common pest issues and help reduce chemical use in both your home and yard.
Composting
Learn how to compost and where to get free composting bins.
Native Trees and Plants
List of Native Grasses
A table listing grasses—primarily from the Piedmont region—which are suitable for landscaping projects and which are likely to be better suited to your local environmental conditions. Note that many ornamental grasses, often and erroneously described as "native," are NOT native and are often invasive.
List of Native Vines
A list of native vines better suited for landscaping projects than the commonly used invasive vines that often overwhelm our natural areas and reduce much needed wildlife habitat.
List of Native Trees and Shrubs
A partial list of native trees and shrubs commonly (or often) found in the Piedmont region, all of which can provide beauty and wildlife habitat on your property.
Outdoor Water Conservation
Tips to conserve water while landscaping and for yard activities.
Green Man Articles on Gardening
The Green Man refers to retired DEP employee Joe Keyser, who is regarded as an authority on gardening topics. When he worked at the Department of Environmental Protection, he developed numerous fact sheets on environmentally-friendly gardening and landscaping, which we continue to offer. Please bear in mind that these fact sheets are several years old and their factual content is not always consistent with current recommendations and practices. The information and contact information on these factsheets is in the process of being updated at this time. For further information related to yard practices, please email us.
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