Book 30, Question 127 · Video
How can a yard use less water than a grassy lawn?
Grass lawns often need lots of watering in summer. Native plants, such as wildflowers and shrubs, have roots that are adapted to local rain and soil, so they need little extra water. They also feed bees, butterflies, and birds. Mulch around plants keeps moisture in. Mixing in clover or letting grass grow taller shades the soil and holds water longer.
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What Crafty Clover says in this video
Intro
Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How can a yard use less water than a grassy lawn?
The Big Idea
Lawns can be thirsty! But some yards need much less water. How?
Thirsty Lawns
Step one: Thirsty Lawns. Grass lawns often need lots of watering in summer to stay green. That can use a big share of a home's water.
Native Plants
Step two: Native Plants. Native plants, like wildflowers and shrubs, have roots adapted to local rain and soil. They need little extra water and feed bees, butterflies, and birds too.
Holding Water
Step three: Holding Water. Mulch around plants keeps moisture in the soil. Mixing in clover or letting grass grow taller shades the soil and holds water longer.
A Closer Look
Let's take a closer look! Native. Native. Holds moisture. Mix it in.
Quick Facts
Quick facts! Deep roots of native prairie plants can reach several meters. Natives feed bees. Mulch keeps soil moist. Taller grass shades soil.
Think Like a Scientist
Now, think like a scientist! Pick a small patch of a yard or schoolyard. Draw its shape. Choose some native plants to grow. Draw where each will go. Which animals might visit?
Outro
Grass lawns often need lots of summer watering, but native wildflowers and shrubs have roots adapted to local rain and soil, so they need little extra water and feed pollinators. Mulch, clover, and taller grass also help hold water. Science is amazing! Keep wondering and keep exploring! Share what you learned with someone at home, and see what they think! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!