ECO-FRIENDLY LANDSCAPES AND GARDENS

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Let's talk about lawn care. Turn away from pesticides that poison you, your pets, your kids, and the water supply. Instead try organic products. Not only do they work well, but you'll notice a difference in how your lawn looks and feels. <br><br>Consider buying a "reel" mower versus a gas mower. Reel mowers are the old fashioned ones that you push yourself. Save money on gas and get some exercise in at the same time.<br> <br>When choosing plants for your yard or garden, purchase ones that are grown locally. Other plants may be beautiful, but not suited for your particular climate. Purchasing locally grown plants ensures that they will grow well in your yard or garden and help promote the local growers. When checking out your local nurseries, be sure to ask questions like which plants are eco-friendly, how much water they require, and whether they need shade or sun? You can also check with a local landscaper for advice.<br><br>Try keeping a portion of your yard for natural plantings. Native wild flowers or plants that attract butterflies or birds are beautiful and will attract helpful insects into your yard as well. <br><br>When purchasing lighting for your yard most people think solar when they think green. Solar lighting is great, but be cautious which ones you choose. Many are made with toxic plastic resins and made for the short term instead of the long haul. Within a couple of years these lights will have to be replaced and because of what they're made of, they are not recyclable. Definitely not eco-friendly! The good news is that if you search you can find solar lights plus many more items for your yard that are much more eco-friendly products. Check out websites like Amazon or Green Electronics for more eco-friendly products and ideas.<br><br>If you're looking for a fountain or birdbath to add to your yard or patio, there are eco-friendly options available as well. They now make fountains and birdbaths with built in solar panels so that they are self sustaining. They'll add beauty and attract colorful birds for your viewing pleasure.<br><br>If you live somewhere with a pool or beach access, you may want to consider installing a solar outdoor shower. You can get ones that are free standing, large enough for children and adults and only need to be hooked up to your garden hose. No heating costs because it's solar and it uses minimal water.<br><br>Shannon Shimizu is a small business owner of a contracting referral service called Five Star Consumer Referrals, Inc. The Five Star vision grew out of frustration of not knowing any reliable contractors for home improvement and repair projects. The goal of the business was to supply homeowners with excellent contractors who were licensed, insured, bonded and whose references were checked. Homeowners were thrilled with the prospect of having an outside third party who had a vested interest in the outcome of their home improvement project, and contractors were very happy to have a generous source of qualified leads.<br><br>In addition to running her business, Shannon is a wife and mother to two young children. Juggling motherhood and a full time business can be stressful, but the rewards of being able to work from home and raise her children is well worth the tradeoff.<br><br>For more information on Five Star Consumer Referrals, Inc. http://www.5starhelps.com

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