by Hope
I am sure you are tired of hearing me complain about yard work. Frankly, I am tired of it too. And I haven’t even started. So I decided to start making my lawn, less of a lawn. Lower maintenance. More edible. And that’s started…
I’ve imagined up and drawn out a backyard design that includes lots of plants native to Georgia, multiple areas with standing garden beds and pathways with pavers.
Why Native Plants
- Native plants do not require fertilizers.
- Native plants require fewer pesticides than lawns.
- Native plants require less water than lawns.
- Native plants help reduce air pollution by eliminating mowing.
- Native plants provide shelter and food for wildlife.
- Native plants promote biodiversity and stewardship of our natural heritage.
- Native plants save money.
Source: H2GrOw
The Plan
A couple of weeks ago, a friend and I built a couple more standing beds. And I began covering sections of the yard with thick layers of cardboard (free from my local part time job) and landscaping fabric. As I have time, the energy, and the funds, I am going to cover those areas with mulch. I’m also watching for mulch sales.
Beauty and her boyfriend have taken on a few garden beds as well. She is definitely the chef of our family and loves using fresh herbs. We have rosemary and mint growing in abundance, she has plans to built out a full offering of herbs and specialty items.
We have plans to plant berries and fruit trees; however, I don’t think that will be in the budget this year. My real goal is to lay out all the beds and get the ground cover done.
Now is the Time
With the plan to NOT travel other than this last minute trip to Texas. I should have lots of time to spend in the yard doing a little at a time. Which is all my back will allow…growing older can sure be hard on the body!
I am relying heavily on local greenhouses to guide me in the native plant, low maintenance selection. I know it will take time, and we all know patience is not one of my virtues. But the vision of a “wild” beautiful yard keeps me motivated.
Resource Sites
Hope is a resourceful and solutions-driven business manager who has spent nearly two decades helping clients streamline their operations and grow their businesses through project management, digital marketing, and tech expertise. Recently transitioning from her role as a single mom of five foster/adoptive children to an empty nester, Hope is navigating the emotional and practical challenges of redefining her life while maintaining her determination to regain financial control and eliminate debt.
Living in a cozy small town in northeast Georgia with her three dogs, Hope cherishes the serenity of the mountains over the bustle of the beach. Though her kids are now finding their footing in the world—pursuing education, careers, and independence—she remains deeply committed to supporting them in this next chapter, even as she faces the bittersweet tug of letting go.
Since joining the Blogging Away Debt community in 2015, Hope has candidly shared her journey of financial ups and downs. Now, with a renewed focus and a clear path ahead, she’s ready to tackle her finances with the same passion and perseverance that she’s brought to her life and career. Through her writing, she continues to inspire others to confront their own financial challenges and strive for a brighter future.
So, what do you think ?