Embracing Greenery Everywhere
Gone are the days of hay day nostalgia and the reverence of the natural environment. The 21st century is no longer a serendipitous stroll through a meadow of clover and dandelions. We find ourselves in a world of global warming, drastic climate change, and the depletion of natural resources.
With such a dramatic decline in the natural environment, it is up to us to find ways to bring back the element of nature within our lives. How can this be done? One way is to embrace greenery everywhere. By welcoming in the sights and sounds of plants, we can achieve a system of sustainable living and restore balance to our living spaces.
In order to successfully incorporate the elements of nature within our spaces, we must first educate ourselves of these different elements. Then, we must be able to create a plan that is both practical and feasible. A few ways to bring back the element of nature to our environment are listed below.
Learning About Nature’s Elements
When it comes to greenery, there are many different types of plants and trees. Every environment, and even every room of your home, has a different type of plant that is best suited to flourish in that environment. It is important to learn about these plants and their specific likes and dislikes. Some areas of your home may be better suited for a small shrub or a climbing vine, while other areas may require more delicate and intricate plants. Learning the differences between plants and their needs helps us to pick the best plants for our environment.
Creating a Green Space
Once you have a better understanding of the different types of plants available for your environment, it is time to decide how to incorporate these plants into your room or space. Identifying the area of your home that will benefit the most from greenery is important. Consider the type of light that is available, the amount of sun and shade, and the overall climate within the room.
Keep in mind that adding too many plants can be overwhelming and can take away from the aesthetics of the space. A good rule of thumb is to take a step back and assess the room as a whole. Where have natural elements been neglected and what can be used to bring balance back to the room?
When creating a green space, it is important to think of it as an opportunity to add function and beauty. A green space is more than just plants and flowers, it can also include outdoor furniture, outdoor lighting, landscaping, and even outdoor art.
Planting Greenery
Once you have chosen the area in which you want to incorporate nature’s elements, it is time to start planting. Choosing the right plants and trees for your environment is important. Make sure to select plants and trees that will ultimately help the environment. Some trees, such as Douglas Firs, are especially good at helping to reduce air pollution and therefore should be encouraged.
When planting the greenery, think about the areas around the plants. Consider using rain-barrels, compost boxes, and other solutions to increase the overall function of the area. Adding landscaping rocks, pebbles, and mulch is also a great way to improve the aesthetic of the area. Planting larger trees such as an oak tree not only adds to the aesthetics of the space, but also creates a great shading effect which can help make a room feel cooler in the summer.
Maintaining Greenery
Once your green space is established, keeping up with the plants and trees is important in order to maintain its beauty and function. Consider mulching the area every few weeks, pruning trees and shrubs, and laying down fresh grass. Watering the plants is also important, and make sure to check for pests and diseases to prevent any problems from arising.
It is also important to keep up with the maintenance of the environment. This includes checking for loose screws, chinks in walls, and other potential problems which can easily be prevented with some routine maintenance.
Although it may be difficult to bring the elements of nature into our lives in the 21st century, it is possible. By embracing greenery everywhere, we can find a way to incorporate nature into our environment. With education and planning, a beautiful outdoor space can be created that will serve as a reminder of the importance of nature and balance to our living spaces.
