If you own rental property in Westchester County, you probably wish to make it more environmentally sustainable. One minor yet impactful step is to develop a pollinator-friendly yard. Key landscaping strategies for rentals involve crafting attractive, manageable yards. A pollinator-friendly garden is an environmentally sound investment that might also increase your property’s value. By developing a pollinator-friendly yard, you may attract eco-conscious tenants who value such features.
You can still make a difference even if you aren’t a passionate gardener. You may know that populations of pollinators such as butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds are dropping fast. Without these essential pollinators, we wouldn’t have access to the diverse fruits, nuts, and seeds we enjoy. Even small modifications to your rental’s landscaping can benefit local pollinator populations.
Plant With Variety
One effective way to attract pollinators is by using a mix of plants in your garden. Choose plants that have staggered blooming periods, from early spring to late fall. Most areas have native plants like lavender, coneflowers, and bee balm that are low-maintenance and attract pollinators.
Add a Feeder
To attract hummingbirds and butterflies, try hanging a nectar feeder in your rental’s yard. These pollinators are enjoyable to watch and will benefit your landscaping plants. Setting out a dish of ripe fruit or water with sea salt can help draw more pollinators to your yard. These items are particularly appealing to butterflies.
Rethink the Lawn
For many rental homes, a vibrant green lawn is essential to the landscaping. A few straightforward changes to your lawn can help support pollinators. By letting the grass grow to about 3 inches and develop seed heads, you retain soil moisture and attract pollinators. Another option is to mix low-growing plants like white clover or violets with your grass. These non-invasive plants support local pollinators and won’t harm your lawn’s health.
Use Alternatives to Pesticides
Numerous property owners use pesticides on their lawns or plants, but this can also harm beneficial pollinators. When spraying for harmful insects or issues, consider more environmentally friendly solutions. 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.
Should your tenant want to include pollinator-friendly elements in the yard, consider permitting them to do so. It’s essential to confirm with your tenant the planned changes, who will handle the work, and the payment arrangements.
If a tenant asks you to help with costs for plants or elements, it could be worthwhile if it boosts property value or appeal. Setting up a pollinator-friendly yard may have upfront costs, but the long-term gains can be substantial.
To boost your rental property’s value, consider creating a pollinator-friendly yard. For advice, contact Real Property Management Priority. We’re pleased to talk about how our property management services can enhance your investments in Westchester County and surrounding areas. Contact us online or call 845-363-6776 today!
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