Save Your Lawn And The Bay, Mow Your Grass Taller
WASHINGTON (AP) -- If you're looking to save your lawn and the Chesapeake Bay, start with cutting your grass higher this summer.
The Audubon Society is part of a pilot project along with the University of Maryland on public attitudes and practices toward sustainable lawn care.
Organizers say studies show mowing at 3 inches prevents weed problems, contributes to a healthy root system and promotes drought, disease and insect resistance. It also prevents runoff of soil, fertilizers and chemicals.
Lawns are important to bay restoration efforts because grass covers more acres in the six-state bay watershed than any other crop. Many homeowners use fertilizer to help lawns grow, which harms water quality when it reaches the bay.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
