How to Rewild Your Lawn and Property

Rewilding has become a popular trend in outdoor landscaping, offering homeowners a way to create a natural sanctuary in their own backyards. This approach, also known as “ungardening,” transforms outdoor spaces into havens for local wildlife while providing a more sustainable and low-maintenance alternative to traditional gardening. This guide explores what rewilding is, its benefits, and practical steps for implementing this eco-friendly approach in your own outdoor space.

What Is Rewilding and Where Did It Come From?

Rewilding originated as an ecological conservation movement in the early 1990s, conceived by the “Earth First!” movement. American conservationists Michael Soulé and Reed Noss later refined the concept in their paper “Rewilding and Biodiversity: Complementary Goals for Continental Conservation.” They outlined three fundamental principles of rewilding: establishing large protected areas, creating connectivity between those areas (corridors), and reintroducing and protecting keystone species.

Today, rewilding has evolved to include a more personal gardening and landscaping movement. At-home rewilding mirrors the goals of the larger ecological technique, aiming to create spaces that support native species and local wildlife. This approach involves adding elements to backyard landscapes that attract and sustain local fauna, such as creating “hedgehog highways,” which are small openings in fences or protective hedges that allow small mammals to move freely between properties.

Benefits of Rewilding Your Property

Rewilding offers numerous advantages for homeowners and the environment. Here are some of the key benefits of adopting this approach in your outdoor space:

How To Rewild Your Property

While there are no strict rules for rewilding, there are several general principles and practices you can follow to create a more wildlife-friendly outdoor space. Here are some steps to get started:

Allow Your Lawn to Naturally Degrade or Decompose

One of the easiest ways to begin rewilding is by allowing yard waste and garden clippings to decompose naturally. This practice reduces landfill waste and provides valuable nutrients to the soil. Here are some tips for utilizing yard waste effectively:

• Leave grass clippings in place after mowing: This aids decomposition and provides cover for ground-dwelling insects, enhancing soil health.
• Keep mower blades sharp: Sharp blades prevent damaging grass and causing brown, coarse tips, ensuring healthier lawn growth.
• Cut grass less frequently and at the right length: Allowing grass to grow longer between mowings supports deeper root systems and a more resilient lawn.
• Use grass clippings as mulch or fertilizer: These clippings can be repurposed in other areas of the garden, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

Remove Invasive Plants

Identifying and removing invasive species is crucial for successful rewilding. Many plants sold at big-box stores can be invasive, potentially crowding out native species and getting in the way of your rewilding efforts.

Research which plants are considered invasive in your area and remove them from your landscape. Local greenhouses or university horticulture extensions can provide valuable information on regional invasive species.

Some common invasive species include bamboo, Japanese knotweed, and English ivy. Dispose of these plants properly to prevent further spread.

Plant Native Species of Grass, Plants, and Flowers

Incorporating native species is at the heart of rewilding. Native plants are well-adapted to local conditions, requiring less water, fertilizer, and maintenance than non-native species. They’re also more resistant to local pests and diseases.

When selecting plants for rewilding, consider the following:

• Choose native wildflowers: These attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, fostering a vibrant and diverse garden.
• Opt for native grasses: These provide cover for small animals and help prevent soil erosion, promoting a stable landscape.
• Select a variety of plants that bloom at different times of the year: This creates year-round food sources for wildlife and supports a healthy ecosystem.

Add Low-Cost Structures to Attract Wildlife

Incorporating wildlife-friendly structures is another way to encourage the rewilding process. Some popular options include:

• Bird boxes and feeders: These provide safe nesting sites and supplementary food for birds, encouraging their presence in your garden.
• Birdbaths: A freshwater source attracts birds and other wildlife, supporting their hydration needs.
• Small ponds or water features: These create habitats for amphibians, insects, and other creatures, enriching the ecosystem.
• Brush piles: Brush piles offer shelter for small mammals and insects, enhancing habitat diversity.

While some structures, such as bug hotels, can be fun DIY projects, research their effectiveness and potential drawbacks before installation. For example, a bug hotel can promote beneficial insects but may also attract pests if not managed properly.

Things To Consider When Rewilding Your Property

While rewilding offers numerous benefits, there are some factors homeowners should consider before rewilding their lawn.

Financial Considerations

Although rewilding can lead to long-term cost savings, there are some upfront expenses to consider:

• Native plants from local nurseries may be more expensive than those from big-box stores: While the initial cost may be higher, native plants’ resilience and low maintenance can offset these expenses over time.
• Larger-scale rewilding efforts may require minor landscaping alterations or the installation of structures: Features such as ponds or compost bins may need investment, but they contribute significantly to rewilding success.
• Some local building codes or community property standards may restrict rewilding efforts: It’s essential to check local regulations to ensure compliance and avoid potential conflicts with neighbors or authorities.

Investments in rewilding often yield substantial returns in terms of biodiversity, sustainability, and personal satisfaction. Exploring grants or community programs that support environmental initiatives can also help offset costs.

Pests and Upkeep

While rewilding aims to create a more natural environment, it’s important to maintain a balance that doesn’t invite unwanted pests. Here are some tips for managing potential pest issues:

• Clean up birdseed and store firewood properly: This helps avoid attracting rodents, which can become problematic.
• Use sealable, locking garbage bins and avoid leaving pet food outside overnight: These measures deter pests such as raccoons and rodents.
• Consider installing underground wire mesh or fencing around the property perimeter: This deters burrowing animals while allowing above-ground wildlife to move freely.
• Consult with pest control professionals for eco-friendly solutions: When needed, seek professional advice on managing unwanted wildlife without harming the ecosystem.

Balancing rewilding efforts with practical pest control measures helps keep the space inviting for wildlife while deterring potential nuisances. Regular monitoring and adaptive management can help you maintain this balance.