Grass Isn’t Greener: The Everyday Conservationist’s Guide to Bringing Nature to Your Yard

Conservation writer, photographer, and educator Wolfe (The Fantastic World of Bugs) offers myriad ideas for creating and maintaining an eco-friendly yard. She first recommends learning about the site, including soil type, microclimates, and sun/shade. She advocates reducing turf grass areas by creating native plant gardens, choosing the best native plants for the region; eliminating invasive plants; leaving the leaves in the fall; and gardening for wildlife. The book features projects that will attract wildlife, including toad houses and brush piles, and information about bee- and bird-friendly gardens and integrated pest management, avoiding chemicals unless absolutely necessary. Wolfe also discusses light pollution, using trees to reduce energy costs, conserving water, and issues with holiday decorations. She suggests growing food at home, saving seeds, composting, and making a native plant garden palatable to neighbors. Wolfe closes by sharing available programs for backyard scientists, using the yard for rest and play, and being conservation-minded beyond the backyard.