Chemicals used on lawns and gardens can pollute local streams, even if you do not have a creek on your property. Pesticides and fertilizers can wash into storm drains and waterways when it rains. These chemicals can harm plants and animals that live in or near streams. It is important to find healthier alternatives that protect both your household and the environment. 

Grow a Healthy Lawn

If your lawn and garden depend too much on chemicals and lack nutrients, your soil may be unbalanced. You can use a soil conditioner to improve your soil. A soil conditioner helps air flow, reduces soil compaction, increases moisture retention and breaks down organic matter. This can lessen your need for harsh chemical products. 

Consider an Eco-Lawn

You might want to try an eco-lawn. An eco-lawn is a low-input alternative to a regular lawn. It consists of a mix of broad-leaf and grass species. Here are some benefits of eco-lawns: 

• They require little to no fertilizer. 
• They need less water than regular lawns. 
• They stay green during the summer months. 
• They require less mowing. 

You can find tips on how to establish an eco-lawn on the OSU Extension Service’s website.

Pesticide Alternatives

There are many effective ways to control pests without using harmful chemicals: 

• Physical Methods: Spray aphids with a garden hose, use sticky tape to catch root weevils, and pick up snails and slugs by hand. 
• Non-Toxic Sprays: Use oils and soaps that deter pests without hazardous chemicals. 
• Egg and Oyster Shells: Cleaned shells can be placed around plants to keep slugs and snails away. 
• Remove Standing Water: This reduces places for mosquitoes to lay eggs. 
• Introduce Beneficial Insects: Lacewings, ladybugs and certain bacteria can help control pests. Ask about biological controls at your local plant nursery or garden shop. 

Herbicide Alternatives

Weeding is the best way to control unwanted plants. Here are some effective methods: 

• Pull Weeds Regularly: Remove weeds when they are young. Use weeding tools and hoes to make this easier. 
• Boiling Water: Pour boiling water on young weeds to kill them without chemicals. 
• Mulches and Corn Gluten: These can prevent weeds from growing in the first place. 

Alternatives to Synthetic Fertilizers

You can nourish your plants without using synthetic fertilizers: 

• Mulch: This protects plants from disease and helps retain water and nutrients. 
• Composted Manure: Manure from barnyards provides nutrients but should be composted before use. 
• Compost: You can buy compost or make it at home from kitchen food and yard waste. 
• Grass Trimmings: Leave short grass trimmings on the lawn after mowing for natural mulch. 
• Slow-Release Natural Fertilizers: These are less likely to pollute local lakes and streams. 
• Aeration: Aerate your lawn to allow air and water to reach plant roots. Use equipment designed for this purpose. 

If you use fertilizers or pesticides, do so sparingly and always follow the label instructions. Avoid using these products near streams to prevent pollution that can harm aquatic life. 

Tips for a Healthy Lawn

Avoid using weed and feed combination products, as they contain more chemicals than necessary. The right time to apply fertilizer is not always the same time to apply herbicides. Instead, follow these tips to grow a healthy lawn: 

• Mulch Mow: Make several passes on the lawn to create natural fertilizer. 
• Mow Weeds Early: Cut weeds before they flower and spread seeds. 
• Dethatch Your Lawn: Remove dead grass to promote healthy growth. 
• Overseed: In spring or fall, add seeds to bare patches. 
• Apply Compost: Use a quarter inch of compost to keep seeds in place. 

Follow the Water and Oregon State University Extension Service have partnered to provide lawn care tips through the "What’s Your Lawn Style" campaign. You can find information on maintaining a healthy yard for any maintenance level by visiting WhatsYourLawnStyle.org.