Eco-Friendly Landscaping Tips for Rental Properties
Landscaping in rental properties makes the home’s exterior stand out and attracts new possible tenants. It is an inevitable part of boosting the curb appeal, which is an indirect way to increase the property’s value. What is even more convenient for landlords and property managers is maintaining the landscaping in an eco-friendly manner.
Today, the new generation of renters is much more aware of their environmental impact, so they are looking to live in an eco-conscious way. If you contribute to this vision as a landlord or property manager, a healthier environment for all to live in will be the result. Moreover, eco-friendly landscaping is far easier and less expensive, producing lusher, healthier, and richer greenery. Here are the best ways to do eco-friendly landscaping.
Messy Lawn Mowing
Don’t rake the lawn or use a leaf blower after mowing the lawn; let the grass cutting remain on the lawn. They are full of nutrients which, when decomposing into the soil, will provide the necessary fertilizers to the soil without the need to add any chemicals.
Did you know that fertilizer production creates atmospheric pollutants? If you avoid their use, you are one step closer to having a greener planet. Plus, many chemical fertilizers end up in the groundwater and slowly but steadily pollute the lakes and streams. On the other hand, the grass cuttings will add nitrogen and act like a moisturized barrier to the soil. Plus, that smell of freshly cut grass…? Heavenly.
Don’t Use Gas-Powered Loans or Garden Equipment
Did you know that a powered loan creates as many atmospheric pollutants as 11 vehicles in one hour, while a riding mower emits as many pollutants as 34? These are facts stated by the US Environmental Protection Agency. So, what do you do to avoid using gas-powered equipment? Go for electric and battery-powered loan care equipment. This way, you will use the innovations and electric technology to help cut fossil fuel consumption.
Choose Your Grass Type Right
Yes, there are different types of grass based on where they grow. For example, the Kentucky bluegrass thrives best in Kentucky. Still, in countries like Arizona and California, it will take extra care and water, and even then, it may not thrive. So it would help if you did extensive research on which grass will thrive in your area so you don’t waste time, money, money, and effort on unsuitable types of grass. Not to mention that it won’t be ecological at all.
Make Your Own Compost
You can advise tenants to use the food scraps from their kitchens and add them to an outdoor compost file in the common area. This will make high-quality fertilizer for the mutual garden, and the best part is that it is entirely free.
Insects and Worms Are Your Friends
The soil needs oxygen to thrive, so you must aerate your lawn and garden manually every season to ensure the soil gets the air it needs. But what if we told you there is another way to do it?
You can spread worms throughout the loan and garden and water them thoroughly, allowing them to work their way into the soul. We’ll also do a great job, but you must be careful not to let them enter the house and cause infestation. They feed on harmful insects, pollinate flowers, and distribute seeds, so you must have them as an ally in the garden.
Water Smartly
When it comes to watering the garden, you need to put your smart thinking cap on and make a decision to water deeply but less frequently. A sprinkler system is inefficient because much of the sprinkled water evaporates before it even hits the ground. That means you waste a lot of water the soil needs. To avoid this, you should program the system to work after midnight, when the air is cooler and less capable of absorbing moisture.
To ensure that the roots get enough water, leave the sprinkle on for the next ten minutes, but water three times a week instead of every day. Follow the weather forecast, and if there is rain, turn off the system until the rain is gone. You can also install a smart watering system that you can operate by app.
Installing a drip system to water the garden is the best option because it maximizes water efficiency.
Clover Brings Luck to The Lawn, Too.
Growing clover will add lush green coloration to the lawn even though it is considered a weed. It grows well in poor soil and is easy to plant. You just need to sow the seeds directly on top of the existing loan and water well. However, you must ensure that the HOA complex or community allows the growing clover.
Conclusion
Using eco-friendly landscaping can make your rental property look great while saving money and helping the environment. Simple changes like using electric lawn tools, choosing the right type of grass for your area, and watering wisely can keep your property green and appealing to tenants who care about sustainability. These small steps make a big impact, creating a beautiful and eco-conscious home for everyone.
At Westrom Group Property Management, we’ve been helping property owners in Fort Worth for over 21 years. As a family-owned business, we know the local market and what works best for your property. Whether it’s adopting eco-friendly practices or handling day-to-day management, we’re here to take the stress off your shoulders and help your property succeed. Let us be your trusted partner in property management.