Transforming your yard for conservation
August 24, 2026
Iowans can replace traditional, sod-forming grass lawns with native plants to create multiple benefits. Native plants generally require less maintenance, help reduce soil erosion and nutrient transport, and (my favorite) help wildlife like birds and pollinators. However, creating these areas in your yard and garden can sometimes seem daunting, especially if you see someone else with a beautiful-looking yard that exemplifies what you want! I want to discuss some of the many options for yards, focusing on what I’ve tried in my own space to show how everyone can experiment before committing to any one practice...