Earth Day
Earth Day is the one day of the year that we pledge to give back to Mother Earth. For all the resources we consume on a daily basis, this day brings awareness and action to how we can change our living habits and give back to Earth what we’ve taken. There are so many ways to contribute to the cause and lots of activities planned in celebration. Beach cleanups, recycling events, lessons in water conservation, school programs that show our children ways to reuse materials and make a difference in the preservation of outdoor living. This is the time to remind and teach those around us how to be forever eco-friendly.
One of the most popular Earth Day activities is planting native trees. Outdoor plants contribute to our future by providing food for humans and wildlife, creating shade and shelter, filtering pollution from the air, and recycling water. Ideally, when planting, we should be xeriscaping. Xeriscaping is using native plants in your landscape designs. Plants that are naturally suited to your local climate and require little extra water or special care. It’s an earth-friendly practice that reduces your carbon footprint as well as cutting down on your garden chores.
This year’s Earth Day tree planting will be extra meaningful for my family. We recently said good-bye to our beloved dog, Bodhi. We plan to plant our fledgling Bodhi Tree (ficus religiosa) in a regal, oversized planter along with his ashes, in the backyard. We will place him right next to our extra long garden bench so we can all sit and visit with him. To watch him grow into a beautiful tree will not only be the perfect Earth Day contribution but a lasting memorial and tribute for all he gave to us.
So make Earth Day a priority this year and plan a project with your family. There are planting events planned worldwide so make sure you get out there and give back. Whether you join a local campaign or do something more personal on your own, please pledge to plant outdoors and continue being an outdoor living awareness advocate.
For more outdoor living ideas, follow us on Pinterest.com/CarlsPatio.
