As a rental property owner in Kirkland, you likely want to contribute to making your property greener. Creating a pollinator-friendly yard is a small yet significant action you can take. The best landscaping practices for rentals focus on making yards that are both attractive and low-maintenance. Investing in a pollinator-friendly yard aids the environment and may add value to your property. A pollinator-friendly yard can attract tenants who prioritize environmental sustainability.
You don’t need to be a gardening enthusiast to make a meaningful impact. You may know that populations of pollinators such as butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds are dropping fast. Pollinators play a crucial role in our ecosystem, helping produce the fruits, nuts, and seeds we love. However, a few adjustments to your rental’s landscaping can help boost local pollinator populations.
Plant With Variety
One effective way to attract pollinators is by using a mix of plants in your garden. Aim to choose plants that flower at different times, from early spring through late fall. Typically, you can find native plants like lavender, coneflowers, and bee balm that require little care and draw pollinators.
Add a Feeder
Hanging a nectar feeder in your rental’s yard is another simple way to draw hummingbirds and butterflies. People love watching these pollinators feed, and they help your landscaping plants thrive. A dish of ripe fruit or water mixed with sea salt can further attract pollinators to your yard. These items are particularly appealing to butterflies.
Rethink the Lawn
Many rental homes feature a healthy, green lawn as a crucial part of their landscaping. Simple adjustments to your lawn can also aid pollinators. Growing the grass a bit taller, around 3 inches, and allowing seed heads to form helps retain moisture and attract pollinators. You could also add low-growing plants like white clover or violets to your grass. These non-invasive plants support local pollinators and won’t harm your lawn’s health.
Use Alternatives to Pesticides
While many property owners use pesticides on their lawns or plants, this can also damage beneficial pollinators. If spraying for harmful insects is necessary, opt for environmentally friendly methods. Certain oils and soaps can deter pests without harming pollinators. Using cornmeal can help get rid of ant colonies, while garlic, pepper, and beer can deter some biting insects.
If a tenant desires to incorporate pollinator-friendly elements in the yard, think about allowing it. Ensure that both you and your tenant understand the changes, who will perform the work, and who will cover the costs.
Even if your tenant requests cost-sharing for plants or elements, it may be a good investment if it adds value or attracts future tenants. Although there may be initial costs to create a pollinator-friendly yard, the long-term benefits can be greater.
Developing a pollinator-friendly yard can enhance the value of your rental property. For advice, contact Real Property Management Eclipse. We’d be delighted to explain how our property management services can support your investments in Kirkland and nearby. Contact us online or call 425-209-0252 today!
Originally Published on July 16, 2021
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