The Joy of Meadows

I have grown more and more excited over the years about replacing the turfgrass on my 5-acre property with meadow. In my travels with colleagues and on vacations, I have been exposed to some incredible examples of what’s possible. A real “aha” moment for me came in Margaret Roach’s yard while filming an episode of Growing a Greener World. She had just let the grass grow out in an area, and the difference in the life coming out of the mowed area versus the unmowed area was just night and day. I have yet to get started transforming my remaining lawn into meadow, but with books like Owen Wormser’s Lawns Into Meadows, I know where to begin.

The Importance of Biodiversity

The more we learn about the importance of biodiversity and the harms of monoculture pesticides and synthetic fertilizer, the more we realize that sprawling lawns should be phased out. Owen Wormser, an expert in regenerative landscape design, explains that meadows can store about 70% more carbon than lawns. That’s because lawns have really shallow root systems, while meadows’ roots sink carbon deep into the ground.

Turning a lawn into a meadow not only sequesters carbon but it also reduces the carbon footprint of maintaining a lawn, running a lawnmower, and the production of fertilizer. In fact, Owen’s book says that for every one ton of fertilizer produced, two tons of carbon dioxide go into the atmosphere. And chemical fertilizer, via runoff, also pollutes ponds, lakes, and bays.

The Beauty of Meadows

Beyond the ecological benefits, meadows are simply beautiful. They provide a stunning display of colorful flowers, swaying grasses, and a vibrant array of pollinators and wildlife. Instead of a lifeless, monotonous expanse of turf, a meadow transforms your yard into a dynamic, ever-changing landscape.

Imagine stepping outside and being greeted by the flutter of butterflies, the hum of bees, and the melody of birdsong. A meadow is a feast for the senses, inviting you to slow down, observe, and connect with the natural world. It’s a stark contrast to the manicured, sterile appearance of a traditional lawn.

Getting Started

So, how do you go about turning your lawn into an organic, eco-friendly meadow? The process may seem daunting, but with the right guidance and a bit of patience, it’s very achievable.

The first step is to get rid of the existing turf. Owen recommends tilling the area to turn the organic matter back into the earth, restore the soil, and encourage the seeds that are already present to sprout. Successive tillings will eliminate the grass and weeds.

Once the lawn is removed, it’s time to select the plant species that will thrive in your specific site conditions. Owen encourages gardeners to choose native plants, as they are best suited to the local climate and will provide the most benefits for wildlife.

You can either sow a custom seed mix or plant live plugs. Plugs will get you on your way faster, but seeds are generally more cost-effective for larger spaces. Mixing both can be a great strategy, with plugs in key areas and seeds for the broader meadow.

Maintaining Your Meadow

Establishing a meadow takes time and patience, typically between two to five years. But once it’s filled out with the right perennial plants and grasses, it becomes self-sustaining, requiring minimal maintenance.

The key is to mow the meadow just once a year, typically in the spring before new growth begins. This allows any overwintering insects and critters to complete their life cycles. You can also mow in late fall, but leaving the meadow standing tall through the winter adds visual interest and provides food for birds.

Deer can be a challenge, especially in the early stages, so you may need to use a repellent or temporary fencing to protect the young plants. But once the meadow is established, it can withstand moderate grazing without issue.

Embracing the Joys of Nature

The transformation from a lifeless lawn to a thriving meadow is truly remarkable. It’s a journey of discovery, as you witness the gradual emergence of new life, the gradual shift in the ecosystem, and the ever-changing tapestry of colors and textures.

As you embrace this transition, I encourage you to let go of the notion of the “perfect” lawn and instead, open your heart and mind to the wonders of nature. Celebrate the diversity of plants and creatures that find a home in your meadow, and find joy in the simple act of observation and connection.

After all, isn’t that what gardening is all about – creating a space that nourishes not just ourselves, but the entire web of life? By turning your lawn into an organic, eco-friendly meadow, you’re not just beautifying your property; you’re making a meaningful contribution to the health and resilience of our planet.

So, take that first step, whether it’s tilling a small patch or sowing a handful of wildflower seeds. Today’s Gardens is here to support you every step of the way, with resources, inspiration, and a community of fellow nature enthusiasts. Let’s transform those lifeless lawns into vibrant, life-giving meadows, one yard at a time.