DOCUMENT RESUME

ED 465 644 SE 066 367

TITLE Backyard Conservation: Bringing Conservation from theCountryside to Your Backyard.

INSTITUTION Wildlife Habitat Council, Silver Spring, MD.; NaturalResources Conservation Service (USDA), Washington, DC.;National Association of Conservation Districts, League City,TX.

PUB DATE 2001-05-00NOTE 29p.AVAILABLE FROM Natural Resources Conservation Service, Attn: Conservation

Communications Staff, P.O. Box 2890, Washington, DC 20013.Tel: 888-526-3227 (Toll Free); e-mail: backyard@swcs.org.For full text: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/feature/backyard.

PUB TYPE Guides - Non-Classroom (055)EDRS PRICE MF01/PCO2 Plus Postage.DESCRIPTORS *Conservation (Environment); Elementary Secondary Education;

Environmental Education; Habitats; *Science Activities;Science Instruction; *Trees; *Water Resources; Wetlands;*Wildlife

ABSTRACTThis guide highlights 10 conservation activities, adapted

from farms and ranches, that can be used in the backyard. Each activityprovides background information and instructions on how to complete theactivity. The activities COnCern: (1) tree planting; (2) wildlife habitat;(3) backyard ponds; (4) nutrient management; (5) terracing; (6) water

conservation; (7) backyard wetlands; (8) composting; (9) mulching; and (10)

pest management. (MVL)

Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be madefrom the original document.

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATIONOffice of Educational Research and Improvement

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES INFORMATIONCENTER (ERIC)

CI This document has been reproduced asreceived from the person or organizationoriginating it.

O Minor changes have been made toimprove reproduction quality.

Points of view or opinions stated in thisdocument do not necessarily representofficial OERI position or policy.

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jarmers and ranchers, and manyI homeowners, are making progress innatural resource protection.You can

join their conservation tradition, right in yourown backyard.

There are nearly 2 billion acres of land in theUnited States. About 70 percent of that landis privately owned, and care of that land is inthe hands of those who live and work on it.

Most of that land, 1.4 billion acres, is man-aged by farmers and ranchers. More than 92million acres of landan area the size ofCaliforniais privately developed and muchof it is tended by homeowners.

Farmers and ranchers use conservation plansto help them apply practices that meet theirproduction objectives and protect soil, water,air, plant, and animal resources.You may wantto develop a plan for your own backyard tohelp you apply conservation measures that fityour needs. Or maybe, for now, you'd like totry just a few of the activities in this book.

We hope you'll enjoy these activities thatbring beauty and diversity to your yardwhether your "yard" is measured in acres,feet, or flower pots.We know you'll feel goodabout improving the environment and joiningthe conservation tradition of America's farm-ers and ranchers.

PREVIOUS PAGE

(top) Contour striperopping; (bot-tom right) Northern cardinal,female; (bottom left) Water andplants to attract butterflies; (top ileft) Water lily.

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agt bookn this publication,you'll see practicesused to conserve and

improve naturalresources on agriculturalland across the country.You'll see how you canuse similar practices intour own backyard toelp Improve the envi-

ronment, help wildlife,and in many cases, makethe area more attractiveand enjoyable.

Most backyard conserva-tion practices are easy toput in place.Tips andhighlights are given here,but for more information,

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or for help in developingyour backyard plan, youmay want to consult alocal landscaper, gardenclub, or any of the organi-zations listed in the backof this book.

Tree plantingPage 6

NutrientmanagementPage 2 1

Wildlife habitatPage 8

TerracingPage 22

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Backyard pondPage 14

WaterconservationPage 23

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Conservation effortsby many farmers andranchers help keepthe air clean, maintaingood-quality water fordrinking, recreation,and fish and wildlife,provide homes forwildlife, ensurehealthy soil, and sus-tain a diversity ofplants These benefitshelp people, wildlife,and the environment

Numerous Federaland State conserva-tion programs areaimadat naturalresource protectionand sustainabilityMany provide educa-tional, 'techniCal, andfinancial assistance tohelp farmers conSiderand Jrnplemept? cdA

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rees in your backyard can be home to many different types ofwildlife.Trees also can reduce your heating and cooling costs,

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help clean the air, add beauty and color, provide shelter fromthe wind and the sun, and add value to your home.

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Choosing a treeChoose a tree that will pm-undlczo onlicorwacamra for you

and that fits your landscape.Take advantage of the abun-dant mihmencoceogannElsoling in locallibraries, at universities,arboretums, and parks wheretrees are identified, and fromnative plant and gardeningclubs, and nurseries. Beforeyou buy, you can find out if atree is samprropattaraz QaDcr

17010" COMM, how big it will

get, how long it will live, itsleaf color in the fall, any nutsor fruit it may bear, and theproper planting instructionsand care for that species.Make a conscious effort tocaelkroct .avecsso mem) torow' alma. They will livelonger, be more tolerant oflocal weather and soil condi-tions, enhance natural biodi-versity in your neighbor-hood, and be more beneficialto wildlife than non-nativetrees. Avoid exotic trees thatcan invade other areas,crowd out native plants, andharm natural ecosystems.Plant a wenlarav of treespecies. For wildlife, choosetrees and shrubs that bloomand bear fruit or nuts at dif-ferent times of the year.

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(top) Farmstead windbmak;(bottom left) A resyirl, soothingplace among the trees; (topleft) Enjoying the backyard.

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(top left) Chipping sparrow. nest; (top right) Twine will be

0:3 removed before planting;(bottom left) Field windbreak.

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Planting a treeA properly planted and maintained tree will grow much fasterand live much longer than one that is incorrectly planted. Treescan be planted almost any time of the year as long as the soil isnot frozen. However, esm117 Qtaim Do ghcp oparigumm Tuna) to

plant trees.The roots grow some during the first fall and winterand when spring arrives the tree is ready to grow. Your secondchoice for planting is late winter or early spring. Hot summerweather is hard on newly planted trees and planting in frozensoil during the winter is difficult and tough on tree roots.

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0 Dig a hole twice as wideas, and slightly shallowerthan, the root ball. Roughenthe sides and bottom of thehole with a pick or shovelso that roots can penetratethe soil.

With a potted tree, gentlyremove the tree from thecontainer. Lay the tree on itsside with the container endnear the planting hole. Hitthe bottom and sides of thecontainer until the root ballis loosened.With treeswrapped in plastic or burlap,remove the string or wirethat holds the wrapping to

the root crown. Remove thewrapping if it is plastic;burlap may be left in place.D Gently separate circlingroots on the root ball.Shorten exceptionallylong roots, and guide theshortened roots downwardand outward. Root tips diequickly when exposedto light and air, so don'twaste time.D Place the root ball in thehole. Leave the top of theroot ball (where the rootsend and the trunk begins)1/2 to 1 inch above thesurrounding soil, making sure

not to cover it unless rootsare exposed. As you add soilto fill in around the tree,lightly tamp the soil tocollapse air pockets, or addwater to help settle the soil.D Form a temporary waterbasin around the base of thetree to encourage waterpenetration, and waterthoroughly after planting.A tree with a dry root ballcannot absorb water; if theroot ball is extremely dry,allow water to trickle intothe soil by placing the hoseat the trunk of the tree.0 Mulch around the tree.

Early maintenanceFor the first year or two, espe-cially after a week or so ofespecially hot or dry weather,wariftGT vow/. qv's=olloomIlly gar? oflono ©4

mazBoanve oarcoo. If yousee leaf wilting or hard, cakedsoil, ugiaram. IZTC1) CCM=

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the water soaks in rather thanruns off. This will oncouv-mgo &nog) rravva gunDeo2Da.

Keep the area under the treesmulched and free of otherplants. Until the trees aredeeply rooted, grasses andother plants may take upmoisture before the trees canget their share.

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wour backyard can be home for many different typesof birds, butterflies, beneficial insects, bats, and otherwildlife.Trees, shrubs, and other plants provide both

food and shelter for wildlife.The types of plants you use forfood and cover will help determine the wildlife speciesattracted to your backyard. Consider nexanue pOsorrdopecollso first. Plant a zwurilety cID4 op:D=0am. Select plants

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ghe VCEDEP. Shrubs that produce berries can provide foodthroughout the year. Trees with nuts and fruit can alsoprovide seasonal foods. Flowers and fruits of some plantsattract hummingbirds and butterflies to your backyard.Youalso can construct lb 0=0 D.ocau:semo and other shelter and putout commercial bard Vcrixango.

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Attracting birds toyour yardThese are examples ofplants that you can grow toattract birds and otherspecies. Be sure to checkwith your nursery on whatgrows best in your area.

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Common juniperHighbush blueberryHolliesPyracanthaRed-osier dogwoodServiceberry

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SpicebushSumacsViburnumsWax myrtle

Wean gtov bOrde andother condlID49American beechAmerican hollyAppleBalsam firBlack cherryBlack gumCottonwoodCrabappleFlowering dogwoodHawthornsHickoriesLive oakOaksRed mullberry

Whwato 4ov bardoAmerican bittersweetNative honeysuckleStrawberryTrumpet creeperVirginia creeperWild grape

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Hummingbirds are typicallyattracted to red and yellowtubular flowers, althoughthey frequently visit othersas well.Bee balmColumbineDelphiniumFuchsiaHoneysuckleJewel weedLobeliaPenstemonPhloxSalviaTrumpet creeper

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You can provide additionalfood and shelter for birdsand other wildlife by build-ing or purchasing feedersand houses and by settingout certain foods.Watchingbirds feeding can be anenjoyable pastime. Find outwhich birds aperrod thecc:Anger in or atrAgragethrough vow, area, andprovide food for them.Check to see which birds

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(top) Northerncardinal, male;(bottom right)Supplemental foodfor birds;(bottom left)Interspersed nativeplants.

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(top right) Anna'shummingbird;(bottom right)Eastern bluebird,male, at nest box.

are most common andwhich are rare or in specialneed of food and shelter.Many species of birds can beattracted by a emu/tell-17 ©V

geed in different styles offeeders. Be sure to put feed-ers out co4 reach ogpredagoro.

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Hummingbird:Sugar water (1 part sugar to4 parts water) in a feeder.Every 3-4 days, wash feederwith a little bleach andwater, rinse thoroughly, andadd new sugar water.Oriole:Citrus fruit on a nailTitmouse, nuthatch, chick-adee, and many others:Black oil sunflower seedsGoldfinch, pine siskin:Thistle seedWoodpecker; wren:Plain suet in a suet feeder

Maims Use of feeders couldattract some wildlife speciesthat you may not want tofeed, such as starlings, crows,and squirrels.Type andplacement of feeders and thetype of food can help deterunwanted species.

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Choose a location that birds will find mop:meansand mecum, usually away from the bustle of humanactivity. Make or buy a bird house opeoggiloanv

6:Doak:mesa for the species of bird you want to attract.Thesize of the hole is most critical to prevent the eggs and youngfrom being destroyed by larger birds; always check a list ofappropriate hole sizes.

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Attracting butterflies to your yardColorful butterflies add beauty and interest to your backyard.There are hundreds of differentspecies of butterflies in North America. Butterflies require food in liquid form, such as nectarproduced by plants.They get some of it from flowers and from juices of extra-ripe fruits.Thetypes of VilsougerlIngo pOsinvaes you grow will determine the kinds of butterflies you will attractto your backyard. Observe species nearby, and use plants that attract them. Provide nectar-rach Ocuuerz for adult butterflies and foliage for caterpillars. Do not use insecticides nearplants for butterflies.

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AsterAzaleaButterfly bushButterfly weed and

other milkweedsConeflowerLantanaLupineMilkweedPhloxZinnia

Mentz ear cotanzOnorsCaterpillars, the larval stageof butterflies, need nourish-ment as well. Moth'sMonts are the choice ofmany species. Plants forcaterpillars include:AspenBirchButterfly weed and

other milkweedsDillHollyhockSennaSorrelSpicebrushWillow

Dead, dying, and hollow trees and logs

0,Many people are not aware of the value of dead, dying, and hollow trees, as well as logson the ground, for wildlife. Dead trees provide homes to over 400 species of birds,mammals, and amphibians. Fish, plants, and fungi also benefit from dead and dying

trees. Consider leaving standing dead and dying trees in your yard unless they pose a humansafety or property hazard, and use downed woody materials in gardens and landscaping.

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Attracting bees toyour yardIn the United States, thereare nearly 5,000 differentspecies of native beesalmost all of them canton'',Volorroar beac that nest inholes in the ground or bur-rows in twigs and dead treelimbs.These bees don't havehives to protect so they arenot aggressive and rarelysting. Bumblebees, carpenterbees, sweat bees, leafcutterbees, digger bees, and otherspagnnorto moony ccaflgov-ant Illlindso a4 Maniac, andplay a critical role in healthywild plant communities andgardens. Some 30 percent ofour diet is the direct resultof a pollinating visit by abee to a flowering fruit tree

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or vegetable plant. Providingbee habitat in your yard canincrease the quality andquantity of your fruit andvegetable harvests.

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Bees are attracted to mostflowering plants, and areespecially fond of blue andyellow flowers.Try plantingyour garden so you havedna'avonil Opocacx3GDOsocumOng on no oprfluo°mammon°, matnfl 465)00. Plantsfor bees include:Bee balmBlack-eyed SusanCardinal flowerClover and other legumesCosmosCrape myrtleGoldenrodsLupineMallowsMilkweedsMintsSunflowers

Mom komomoA good use forOcma ,m3D Cangmlbov (at

least 3-5 inchesthick) is to drill holes (from

1/8-inch to 5/16-inch in diam-eter) about 90 percent of theway into the thick woodenblock. Space the holes about1/2-inch to 3/4-inch apart.The 5/16-inch holes workbest as homes for orchardbees, which are excellent pol-linators of fruit trees. Hangyour bee blocks urinaovuTeDormwoo of your house or gar-den shed, protected fromdirect sun and rain.

Attracthe4' bats toyogcr yardBats can be beneficial andinteresting mammalianspecies in yourneighborhood. Bats areamong the most importantconsumers of rnagka-VOulnoflamoeQs, includingmosquitoes, moths, andbeetles. For example, a

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PREVIOUS PAGE

(top) Monarch butterfly onconeflower; (bottom right)Digger bee; (left) Giantswallowtail after emergingfrom chrysalis.

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(top right) Canada goose;(bottom) Egret over wetland.(left) Pallid bat with insect.

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single little brown bat cancatch more than 300mooccamatessas an hour.Watching bats fly aroundlight posts catching bugscan be an interestingnighttime activity.

To help attract bats and pro-vide them with much-need-ed roosting habitat, you maywant to consider putting abat house in your yard.Thehouses should be placed onpoOssis cov bundflosses atDeact Ile Vest Nigh in aspot that receives 6 or morehours of sun per day. Treetrunks are usually too shady

for bat boxes. Some species,such as red bats and hoarybats, will use foliage ofshrubs and trees, while oth-ers, such as evening andIndiana bats, will roost underloose bark or in cavities.

As with all wildlife, batsshould be watched butact handOed or chased.Bats are generally shy ofhumans, and rarely "attack"or fly after a person, but ifcaught or picked up fromthe ground, a bat may bitein self-defense. Bats shouldnot be handled.

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Water for wildiffeClean, fresh water is as important to birds, bats, and otherwildlife as it is for people.Water in a zainneev, baraa betn9cov beclIrgeorsa rpmnsa gives wildlife the water they need.Remember to change the water every few days to heap atVrreah. In hot weather, it may be necessary to refill the con-tainer every day.

Logs, rocks, and other in-water structures provide drinldngand basking habitat for turtles, butterflies, and songbirds.Stones with depressions that collect water will help attractbutterflies.

MgatButterflies, birds, bees, and all wildlife are very vulnerable tomany pesticides and other chemicals. Probably the best singlething a gardener can do for wildlife is to mairollunkze consuna-cal] moo. If you use chemicals, always amaairno DELcllOnotmactaccono.

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Farmers are installing gross,tree and shrub plantings, poitids.and ether wildlife habitat atresord rates Buffer strips alongwaterways, mass areas, andnative prairie plantings are someof the maetiees used on farmsNesting struetures sueh as birdand bat houses are sometimespriowded for wildlife Some farm-ers plamt or leaxe food plo.ts ofeorn, millet, or other gliatritssReeitieWly for wildlife

Pheasants, griouse, guail, plaskeehiekens, mourning doves, andsongbirlds as well as leeparld

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frogs, diaricorild.-.baeic terram,red bats, ad other wildlife,benefit from habitat that farmersand ranehers establish on theirland Farmers appraciate andenjoy wildlife supRorted by ge_Rd

habitat and also benefit fromRellimatioiii and Rest eontrol by

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bathyard pond will Wedyblew i e the foca pofrafor allyour backyard conservaonoft vcDaar Ibm©Icvaend

ackyard ponds are for birds, butterflies, frogs, fish, andyou and your family. These ponds are typically small,sometimes no larger than 3 to 4 feet in diameter.

Water is very effective in drauglIng eulladOlVa to your back-yard. It is also a natural, relaxing, and scenic addition that canprovide interest and enjoyment.

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Where to put a backyard pondConsider locating your backyard pond in view of a deck orpatio where everyone can enjoy it. Have it blend in with its nat-ural surroundings. Plan to aandescaps around Wive pondto provide habitat for frogs and birds that need land and water.Be sure electrical service is available for a pump, filter system tokeep water fresh, or for lighting.There will be less maintenanceand cleanup and most aquatic plants will grow better if yourpond is not under trees.

When to install a backyard pondYou can put in a backyard pond any time the ground isn'tfrozen or overly wet. Plan on taking at least a weekend to installand landscape.

rackyard pond suppliesMost sites will require lining with an impervious material tohold a constant water level. A fnenibfleo Olner made of sheetsof strong plastic is generally the easiest way to line your pond.Flexible liners may make it easier for the pond to fit into thenatural surroundings of your yard. Pre-formed rigid liners alsoare available, but generally are more expensive and moredifficult to install. A wooden half barrel with a liner makes anice small, above-ground pond.You'll also need a pump andVUlltor to maintain clean water and healthy fish.You can addplants, landscaping, heaters, or special effects like fountains andwaterfalls.

Size avsd depthCommon regrets of backyard pond owners are that the pondwas too small or too shallow. Minimum depth for fish is 18inches; a deep end of 2 or 3 feet is recommended. Size andshape of ponds with rigid liners are dictated by the liners.Apond with a flexible liner may be any shape or size.

Establishing plantsFroo-gOostang EmOantsz are an integral part of keeping thewater in your pond clear. Use native plants that are recom-mended for your area.

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Also use olorivalteroctx0 [peas of water lilies,iris, spikerush, arrow-arum, duck potato,marsh marigold, and other native wetlandplants. Mitnawoo anm Gssaungv, and typicallysurvive over winter in the backyard pond,unlike most non-native, tropical species.

Plants should cover 50 to 70 percent of thewater surface. Set the plants 1 to 2 inchesunder water; the pots may need to be sup-ported by submerged rocks or bricks. If youare using native plants, there is usnally noneed to fertilize them. For some exoticwater lilies, limited fertilizingonce yearlymay be required. Check with your nurseryon care of plants and how deep to placepotted plants. Be aware that overfertilizing

may cause unwanted algae blooms whichcan rob the water of oxygen.

Add fish and scavengersConsider stocking your backyard pond withfish.They are fun to watch, and help keepthe pond free of unwanted insects.You'llalso need scavengers, such as aquatic snailsand tadpoles, to help control algae. In coldclimates, a heater may be necessary for fishto survive the winter. Be aware that heaterscan use large amounts of electricity.

HintFill a small area with sand or gravel to cre-ate a shallow area where bees and butter-flies can drink.

SafetyLocate the backyard pond where it is unlike-ly that unattended children may be attractedto it. Check local safety ordinances to deter-mine if a fence is required for the specificdepth and size of your pond. Check localbuilding ordinances for depth and safetyrestrictions and permits. Equip outdoor out-lets with a ground-fault circuit interrupter.

More isOpYour local nursery, landscaper, or other sup-plier can give you more information on thestep-by-step process of building a backyardpond, selecting and establishing suitableplants in and around it, and landscaping.

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(top) Landscaped backyard pond,.(right) Fishing in farm pond; (left)Your "pond"may be as simple as abirdbath.

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--V-- any yards can support a backyard wetland thatbenefits you and your community. Letting runofffrom your roof, parking area, and lot slowly filter

through a mini-wetland helps prevent pollution of neighbor-ing creeks and may help prevent flooding.

Where to put a wetlandLow areas that remain wet or damp much of the year are theeasiest places to establish wetlands. Any derpreemallorra thatcollIkappeas negicrotosater or runoff from downspouts, or servesas the path of drainwater leaving your yard, is an excellentspot to pllevira tocallancl pllento.You'll create a backyardwetland area that will be very Bozo woollrrutemonce. Therewill be no more "bogged down" lawn mowers because nomowing will be needed! The area will attract wildlife and filtethe water draining off your property. If you do not have anappropriate natural site, you can create a wetland the sameway you would a backyard pond. Do not put excess fertilizeror pesticides on your lawn or other areas feeding yourwetland.

How to build a wetlandPartially blocking an existing drainage way or digging a shal-low basin may be all you need to do if you have clay soil thatnaturally holds water. In better drained soil or where you waryour wetland to stay wet most of the time, you can dig a shal-low depression and bury a plastic liner as you would to creata backyard pond. How long the area stays flooded or wet dur-ing the growing season is key to the types of plants to use. Ifrunoff will not naturally keep the area wet enough, you willneed to have a supply of water available for occasional use.

Omitpcoraent4D Because of the variety of potential conditionsthat you can create, and the potential side-effects of blockingdrainage ways, you should always consult an expert beforestarting a wetland project.

Viso& go pilaw-A wide variety of attractive plants can grow in wet areas.Cattails and many varieties of reeds thrive in the open sunand are easy to care for. Many species are not harmed by longdry periods during the summer. Cardinal flowers, sweet flag,and pickerel weed thrive in wet areas. Trees and shrubs likeblack gum, water oak, red-osier dogwood, button bush, andsweet pepper bush apagal 4aux2anri.e, 000c2.,, sand aDmanivrau toany landscape, and are adapted to poorly drained soil. A vari-ety of attractive ferns, skunk cabbage, and Jack-in-the-pulpit

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Wetland plants in low areabetween buildings.

THIS PAGE

(top) Wet area below a springgrows wetland plants; (right)Goldfinch on coneflower;(bottom) Restored prairiepothole wetland.

Richard Day, Daybreak Imagery

grow well in wooded wetlands that are damp and shaded. Ifyou create bog conditions of permanently damp organic soil,you can grow native orchids,Venus flytrap, and sundew.

WasElfe lop, yoaar wetgovadMany birds and small animals will quickly start using yourwetland. Usually frogs, toads, salamanders, and aquatic insectswill find your wetland during the first spring. A deep, perma-nent pool in the wetland can support native frogs, toads, andpossibly fish that will eat mosquito larva and other insects.Most frogs and toads need spring pools in which to breed;their tadpoles need shallow water for several weeks whilethey mature.Wetlands that dry out in the summer can sup-port a variety of plants and wildlife and will not producemosquitoes.

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11 organic matter eventually decomposes.Composting speeds the process by providing anideal environment for bacteria and other decompos-

ing micro-organisms. The final product, humus or compost,Dome= and Voo0o gas gel:edam cto[111. This dark,crumbly, earthy-smelling stuff works wonders on all kinds ofsoil and provides vital nutrients to help plants grow and lookbetter.

Decomposing micro-organisms need four key elements tothrive: nitrogen, carbon, moisture, and oxygen. For best results,mhz onstorOallo hOgh 1ln nOtoogoon (such as clover and freshgrass clippings) and thoos Nigh In osivben (such as driedleaves and twigs). If there is not a good supply of nitrogen-richmaterial, a handful of general lawn fertilizer will help the nitro-gen-carbon ratio. Moisture is provided by rain, but you mayneed to Ngsqor air (=weer the pHs to ftoop I damp. Becareful not to saturate the pile. Oxygen is supplied by geouvolng© mtildng the pile. More turning yields faster decomposition.

Getting startedMany materials can be added to a compost pile, includingleaves, grass clippings, straw, woody brush, vegetable and fruitscraps, coffee grounds, livestock manure, sawdust, and shreddedpaper. Avoid using diseased plants, meat scraps that may attractanimals, and dog or cat manure which can carry disease.

Composting can be as simple or as involved as you wouldlike, and depends on how much yard waste you have, howfast you want results, and the effort you're willing to invest.

Cold composting

61/4

With cold composting, you can just pile grass clip-pings and dry leaves on the ground or in a bin.Thismethod requires no maintenance, but you'll have to

wait several months to a year for the pile to decompose. Coldcomposting works well if you're short on time or have littleyard waste. Keep weeds and diseased plants out of the mix.Add yard waste as it accumulates.

18 19

9 2,

0 IMF

Ho& composthnHot composting requires more work, but with a few minutesa day and the right ingredients you can have finished compostin a few weeks. Hot piles must be built all at once in a4- to 5-foot cube and turned regularly. As decompositionoccurs, the pile will shrink. A 3-foot cube is needed to main-tain necessary heat. Hot piles can reach 110 to 160 degreesFarenheit, killing most weed seeds and plant diseases.

On a level site, lay down bricks or prunings to promote aircirculation.

El Spread several inches of the high-carbon material, then mixhigh-carbon and high-nitrogen material together. Waterperiodically.

CI Punch holes in the sides of the pile for aeration.E The pile will heat up and then begin to cool. Start turning

when the pile's temperature begins to drop.

Move materials from the center to the outside and vice versa.Turn every day or two and you should get compost in lessthan 4 weeks.Turning every other week will give compost in1 to 3 months. Finished compost will smell sweet and be cooland crumbly to the touch.

PREVIOUS PAGE

Nutrient-rich compost

THIS PAGE

(top) American cranberrybush Viburnum; (top right)Compost bin made of fencing wire; (bottom right)Wooden compost bins; (bottom) Manure storagetank.

Christi-Carter from Grant 'Heilman

Christi 'owlet from Grant Heilman

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--V-- ulching involves placing a layer of organic materi-al around plants.As mulch decomposes, it addsorganic matter to the soil.This provides important

nutrients for plants and an ideal environment for earthwormsand other organisms that help enrach tilos C3,390 O.

Mulching can recycle yard wastes and improve your soil.Mulch prat:mete soon iirenv ernallon, prevents weedgrowth, conserves soil moisture, stabilizes soil temperature,reduces compaction, and keeps clean and dry any fruit orvegetable that touches the ground.

&We; materialsThe best place to look for mulch materials is in your ownyard. eresms cOOppangoo and Osaingeo work well formulching if they are dry and weed free. Avoid adding clip-pings to your vegetable garden from lawns that have beentreated with weed killer within the last two mowings. If youlive near farming areas, you may be able to get old hay from afarmer or feed store.

Compost makes an excellent organic mulch material. It addsnutrients to the soil and has a natural appearance.Wood chipsand bark work well around trees and shrubs and make attrac-tive walkways through gardens.

Applying mulchApply mulch when oztlengn are eatabHinhed and ea:00no warm. First, water your garden well.Then place a layer ofmulch around the plants.Thickness of the mulch layer variesfor each material:

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You will help insulate the root zone and lower evaporationrates if you liberally apply mulch. Be careful not to smotherthe plants. As the mulch breaks down, add more material tothe top throughout the growing season. After harvest, ececcurftthe madch Onto the ason to integrate the organic matter, orleave it on the surface to dcmcav natezvallg and be carriedinto the soil by earthworms.

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rkrjutrients are essential for good plant growth, butoverapplying nutrients is not good for plants or forthe environment. Excess nutrients leach through

the soil and end up in ground water, or run off into stormsewers and end up choking a lake or stream.

Amy Janssen Smith, USDA

The three primary plant nutrients are nitrogen,phosphorus, and potassium. Generally, nitrogenpromotes top growth, phosphorus helpsdevelop stronger roots and more flower andfruit production, and potassium builds durabilityand disease resistance.

Remember to cenondav nairatuca (pOsanartsz or others with low

fertilizer needs.

Sail test is keyThe key to good nutrient management on the farm and in yourbackyard is a reliable soil test.Without a soil test, you could beapplying too much, too little, or the wrong nutrients.You'll wanta separate soil test for your lawn and for your garden.

Commercial soil test kits are available at nurseries and lawn andgarden suppliers. Ask for information on how to take your soilsamples. Apply oveD37 the naearacanto rusatisacaxea according to

the soil test, and at the right time. Never exceed the recom-mended rate.

Fertilizivgg 'Awns0 Use slow-release nitrogen fertilizers.

Mow often, and leave grass clippings on the lawn for fertilizer.0 Be careful not to spread fertilizer on sidewalks and driveways.0 Be sure to calibrate your spreader correctly.

Fertilizing gardenso Use compost to enhance or replace fertilizers.0 Choose a level site, or terrace the garden, to avoid runoff

and erosion.0 Place fertilizer near plants rather than broadcast it over the

entire garden.0 Add organic matter to the soil by using manures and organic

fertilizers at a conservative rate.

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Lynn Betts, USDA

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PREVIOUS PAGE

(top) Applying shreddedmulch; (bottom) Soybeansgrowing through cornresidue.

THIS PAGE

(top right) Using soil testkit in yard; (bottom)Testing soil on the farm;(top left) Curbside runoffdrains to lake.

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erraces can break your backyard into several mini-gardens. On steep slopes, terracing can make plantinga garden feasible. Terraces prevent erosion by

shortening the long slope into a series of shorter, more levelsteps.This allows heavy rains to o©e flo retothan thoont mon©IN and cause soil erosion.

Materials for terracesBuilding terraces is like building a stairca.se.The material youuse to make the face of the stair may be treated lumbersuchas railroad ties, poles, or postsor bricks, rocks, concreteblocks, or similar materials.

Height of walkThe steepness of the slope often dictates wall height. Makethe terraces in your yard high enough so the land areabetween them is Vannalg Ilayuca Be sure the terrace material isotonorrag enough and camicherred vgcs:40 enough to stay inplace through freezing and thawing, rainstorms, and so forth.Large projects, such as retaining walls, may require a profes-sional design and specialized assistance and equipment. Besure to cheeft Cooed 115nollango codeo regarding the instal-lation of high walls, and toccarft osraD1117.

Erosion control is a considerationHeavy rains can cause erosion between terraces, and createsmall gullies if water concentrates as it goes over a terrace. Tohelp prevent erosion, atidd mach or coqhczgr gpoodlgormand caman on land between terraces.

22 2 3

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f you rely on watering to make your lawn grow and yourgarden productive, consider a more efficient system.There are several ways to improve the use of water.

Use water againWhen it rains, if no water recycling system has been planned,the water that runs off your house keeps on going to thestorm sewer. By saving that water, and reusing it on your gar-den or lawn later, you save energy and water.

A simple recycling system directs water from eavespouts to astorage barrel.You fill a bucket with water from the storagebarrel and carry the water to your garden.This is a simple andeffective system. However, you may want a more elaboratemethod of capturing and distributing rain water.

Watering to save energyWhenever practical, ugater On the ottnlv mornOng.In arid climates, it's okay to water in the evenings andat night.You'll lose less water to evaporation than if

you watered in the middle of the day, and the plants are lessstressed and can take up the water more efficiently.

Mulch or fiber cloth preserves soil moisture.You can find sup-plies and information at a nursery or hardware store.

Consider planting native species.They usually use little or nowater beyond normal rainfall.

Drip irrigation bevriefltsA drip irrigation system will provide water directly to theplant.You can control the flow to each plant.

24

Ago,

,

Ron Nichols, USDA

PREVIOUS PAGE

(top) Terraced flowerbeds; (bottom) Farming grassedterraces on the contourTills PAGE

(top) Drip irrigation in vegetable garden; (bottom) Efficientdrip irrigation on the farm.

Drip irrigation ranges from inexpensive soaker hoses toelaborate computerized systems.There may be an up-frontinvestment, but you'll ammo Ocelema emote? and havebettaa tseeracar dOratrennotIon.

Garden or hardware stores will have the supplies you need.You may even want to engineer your own system from a gar-den hose. Be sure not to overapply fertilizer when using adrip system.

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best way to stay on top ofpotential plant health andpest problems. If you seeminimal damage, it is ofteneasiest to just tolerate it andcontinue monitoring. If pestsbegin to cause seriousdamage, there are a numberof treatment methods.

24 25

1411

0

44

. A -

Preventing pestsPlant disease and pest-resistant species.Select a variety of hardy plant species and space themproperly.

II Select plants that bloom and bear fruit at different times ofthe year.Plant flowers, herbs, and vegetables together and changethe location of annuals every year to prevent buildup ofcertain pests.Clean up plant litter and remove weeds before they go to seed.Add bird and bat houses to the garden.Provide habitat for beneficial insects that prey on pests.Water and add nutrients properly to increase plant vigor.

Physkal pest controlRemove insects by hand.

II Wash pests away using a spray nozzle.El Set traps.

Make physical barriers around plants, such as a wiremesh fence partially sunk into the ground for rabbits,aluminum foil wrapped around vegetable plants forcutworms, and solid barriers to prevent weeds frominvading flower beds or vegetable gardens.

eneficial insectsHaving the right insects in your garden or backyard can keeppests and weeds in check. Beneficial insects, such as ladybugs,assassin bugs, and praying mantises, prey on insects that canharm your plants. The following insects can help control pestsin your backyard:

LE Ladybugs and lacewing larvae for controlling aphids and awide variety of other insects.

III Preying mantises for controlling many insects.

PREVIOUS PAGE

(top)Bluebird atnest bax;(bottom)Spot sprayingdandelion;(top left)Seven-spottedlady beetle.

THIS PAGE

Scouting afarm field.

Seedhead weevils and other beetles for controlling weeds.El Predatory mites for controlling pest mites, thrips, and

many others.0 Ground beetles feed primarily on caterpillars that attack

trees and shrubs.

Chef'D'Bing§ cClOginOLS7

If the methods listed above fail to solve your pest problem,use chemicals of Coto toxillonty and ralcznail dlocomipooll-q0co.o. Always read the label, tioncizzi 6:011mizQaccono9 wear pro-

tective clothing, and spot-spray. Some of these chemicals are:Pesticidal soaps for aphids, scale crawlers, whiteflies,and thrips.

Il Insecticidal dusts for aphids, beetles, fleas, ticks, ants,and crickets.

El Horticultural oils for aphids, mites, leafhoppers, mealybugs,scales, plant lice, and mosquito larvae.

E Botanicals for leafminers, fleas, and ticks.

Before you apply pesticides, make sure that they will not harmbeneficial insects or be hazardous to humans, pets, or wildlife.

Living in harmony with wigsig4feIn some instances, practices described in this book couldattract unwanted wildlife, or more of a species than is desir-able. If you have problems with any wildlife species, mostnurseries or garden stores, and organizations listed in the"Where To Get Additional Assistance" section at the back ofthis book can provide information on preventing or control-ling them.The government agencies listed can provide infor-mation on Federal and State regulations regarding protectionof wildlife species. Equipped with the right information andtools, most people are able to solve their own problems andlive in harmony with wildlife.

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Backyard pracg-cescan be used 'fr&sbared spaces andpubEc pces, ?if)oo

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ven if you don't have a backyard of your own, thereI are many opportunities to use the practices in thisI book to contribute to a healthy environment.

Backyard ponds, wetlands, native grass plantings, and plantsthat attract wildlife can improve school grounds, areas aroundapartments and businesses, community gardens, parks, andother community areas.

Consider starting a backyard conservation project in yourcommunity. Any vacant lot or unused space is a candidate forimprovement with natural plantings. A community garden canbe a source of pride as well as a source of food. A garden alsocan be a hands-on teaching center for natural resource conser-vation concepts.

Businesses often sponsor community improvement projects incooperation with schools and civic organizations, which con-tribute labor.

.11

14,14_1

26 2. 7

% 8

Ways to propooge bathyard cooservatkma z y08,49" vvelggsbolthoese0 Encourage public officials to practice backyard conservation on parks and other public

property0 Plan projects in cooperation with neighboring property owners.El Encourage community involvement.0 Encourage your building owner to use backyard conservation practices on the grounds

around the building.0 Encourage school classes and other organizations to become involved in planning and

caring for the areas.Jim Archambeault

PREVIOUS PAGE

(top) Restored community wetland;(center) Scrub jay drinking from birdbath;(bottom) Urban community garden.

Tms PAGE

(top left) Planting to enhance communityareas; (top center) Robins; (top right) Mulchof grass clippings on vegetable garden;(bottom right)Arboretums and parks fosterinterest in gardening, horticulture, andenvironmental issues; (bottom left) Funand learning in school garden.

28

C"=*on@C3VnGJD [DOME)

UgFIMEIE `TO 01EIT L:\CADOVOCalall, n2.00ZUMMOIMAdditional information on Backyard Conservation is available onthe Web at http://wwwnrcs.usda.gov. For more information on thefollowing topics, please contact the organizations listed below:

am:Mu= 2111011C0 nue:ha:Dan Dutiolkitramgo

For chapter information regarding habitatprojects, call: 212-979-3117, or write:

El National Audubon Societyhttp://www.audubon.org

akeaceweird coiroomoros:OonexosoccRiloso

0 Bat Conservation International512-327-9721http://www.batcon.org

El Wildlife Habitat Council301-588-8994E-mail: whc@wildlifehc.orghttp://www.wildlifehc.org

El Your local USDA Service Center (listed inyour phone book under U.S. government,Department of Agriculture)

0 USDA Natural Resources ConservationService202-720-3210http://www.nrcs.usda.gov

El USDA Farm Service Agency202-720-5237http://www.fsa.usda.gov

CiDer=avgainvil U7D0d101140 MalallortasA

0 National Wildlife FederationBackyard Wildlife Habitat Program703-790-4434http://www.nwforg/habitats

139everlopting sorrasa unannaggIngfllldUl7 hablneuRcs setcr9 ceavam011loNg

annugeotraed vm110(4111140

0 Your State fish and wildlife agency (listedin your phone book under Stategovernment)

o International Association of Fish andWildlife Agencies202-624-7890E-mail: iafwa@sso.org

El The Wildlife Services office nearest you(listed in your phone book under U. S.government)

El USDA Animal and Plant Health InspectionService301-734-7921http://www.aphis.usda.gov

G-Boralcaullauvei, to1ka004e9 ©AvantVerecrargCI Your local extension office (listed in your

phone book under local government)

0 A land-grant university

El Cooperative State Research, Education andExtension Service, USDA202-720-3029E-mail: csrees@reeusda.govhttp://www.reeusda.gov

0 National Arbor Day Foundation402-474-5655http://www.arborday.org

El USDA Forest Servicehttp://www.fs.fed.us

o Your State forester (listed in your phonebook under State government)

lkisenned February 9993SEIgoDsTly Mkarellszsed JezElv 112:00SSOrth41137 Moutlemod Mar 2001

Program Aid 1621

(1.00.12011,17-11ed conoementDenOnDellsoilltuetn

0 Your local conservation district (listed inyour phone book under countygovernment)

El National Association of ConservationDistricts1-800-825-5547http://www.nacdnetorg

C:130000nateir gardarago9 GvED

U.S. Department of EducationOffice of Educational Research and Improvement (OER1)

National Library of Education (NLE)

Educational Resources Information Center (ERIC)

NOTICE

Reproduction Basis

ERIC

This document is covered by a signed "Reproduction Release(Blanket)" form (on file within the ERIC system), encompassing allor classes of documents from its source organization and, therefore,does not require a "Specific Document" Release form.

ulThis document is Federally-funded, or carries its own permission toreproduce, or is otherwise in the public domain and, therefore, maybe reproduced by ERIC without a signed Reproduction Release form(either "Specific Document" or "Blanket").

EFF-089 (312000)