If you own rental property in West Fargo, you probably wish to make it more environmentally sustainable. Creating a pollinator-friendly yard is a small yet significant action you can take. Optimal landscaping for rentals involves designing appealing and easy-to-care-for yards. A pollinator-friendly garden is an environmentally sound investment that might also increase your property’s value. A yard that supports pollinators can be appealing to tenants who seek eco-friendly living spaces.
You don’t need to be a gardening enthusiast to make a meaningful impact. You might be aware that pollinators like butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds are decreasing quickly. These pollinators are vital for our ecosystem, and their absence would mean fewer fruits, nuts, and seeds for us. Yet, with some simple landscaping changes, you can support pollinator populations around your rental.
Plant With Variety
To encourage pollinators, use a range of plants in your yard’s landscaping. Select plants that bloom at different times, ideally from early spring to late fall. In many regions, native plants like lavender, coneflowers, and bee balm are available and appealing to pollinators.
Add a Feeder
Hanging a nectar feeder in your rental’s yard is another simple way to draw hummingbirds and butterflies. Observing these pollinators feed is enjoyable for many, and they contribute to your plants’ health. Another way to attract more pollinators is to set out a dish of ripe fruit or water mixed with sea salt. Butterflies find these items especially attractive.
Rethink the Lawn
In many rental homes, a well-maintained green lawn is a vital part of the landscaping. With a few minor changes, your lawn can support pollinators. By letting the grass grow to about 3 inches and develop seed heads, you retain soil moisture and attract pollinators. You might also mix in low-growing plants like white clover or violets with your grass. These plants are non-invasive and can help local pollinators without damaging your lawn.
Use Alternatives to Pesticides
Spraying pesticides on the lawn or plants is common, but it can negatively affect beneficial pollinators as well. When spraying for harmful insects or issues, consider more environmentally friendly solutions. Oils and soaps can be effective in repelling pests while sparing pollinators. Cornmeal can effectively remove ant colonies, and garlic, pepper, and beer can repel certain biting insects.
If your tenant wishes to add pollinator-friendly features to the yard, consider allowing it. It’s essential to confirm with your tenant the planned changes, who will handle the work, and the payment arrangements.
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. While establishing a pollinator-friendly yard may have initial costs, the long-term advantages can outweigh them.
To boost your rental property’s value, consider creating a pollinator-friendly yard. For advice, contact Real Property Management Optimum. We’d be delighted to explain how our property management services can support your investments in West Fargo and nearby. Contact us online or call 320-289-4649 today!
Originally Published on July 16, 2021
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