Wilding Your Yard
Red oak is an example of a native tree species that could help rewild backyards in the northeast; oaks and other native trees offer more insects for birds than introduced plants. Photo by LCC staff. © Lake Champlain Committee.
Entomologist Douglas Tallamy is urging Americans “to go native and go natural” and move away from the monoculture of a lawn. He’s an advocate for native plants as a way of preserving North America’s natural ecology. His recommendations for rewilding the country include:
- Shrink your lawn
- Remove invasive plants
- Create no-mow zones
- Plant keystone species
- Welcome pollinators
- Use bacteria to fight mosquitos
- Avoid harsh chemicals
