Like many in Arlington, you want to ensure your rental property is environmentally responsible. One minor yet impactful step is to develop a pollinator-friendly yard. Effective rental property landscaping should create beautiful, low-maintenance gardens. Investing in a pollinator-friendly yard aids the environment and may add value to your property. Designing a yard for pollinators might help draw tenants who are environmentally mindful.
You can still make a difference even if you aren’t a passionate gardener. It’s likely you’ve learned that pollinators, including butterflies and bees, are facing rapid declines. Without these essential pollinators, we wouldn’t have access to the diverse fruits, nuts, and seeds we enjoy. With a few tweaks to your rental’s landscaping, you can positively affect pollinator numbers in your area.
Plant With Variety
To attract pollinators, start by incorporating a variety of plants in your yard. Choose plants that have staggered blooming periods, from early spring to late fall. Native plant varieties like lavender, coneflowers, and bee balm, which are easy to maintain and attract pollinators, are available in most areas.
Add a Feeder
Another simple method to attract hummingbirds and butterflies is by placing a nectar feeder in your rental’s yard. People love watching these pollinators feed, and they help your landscaping plants thrive. To draw additional pollinators, consider placing a dish of ripe fruit or water with sea salt in your yard. Butterflies are particularly drawn to these offerings.
Rethink the Lawn
A thriving, green lawn is a fundamental aspect of landscaping for numerous rental properties. A few straightforward changes to your lawn can help support pollinators. Allowing the grass to grow to about 3 inches and develop seed heads can 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
Many property owners use pesticides on lawns or plants, which can harm beneficial pollinators alongside the targeted insects. If you need to spray to manage harmful insects, try using eco-friendly alternatives. Some oils and soaps can ward off pests without endangering 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. Be sure to discuss and agree with your tenant on the changes, the work, and the financial responsibilities.
If a tenant asks you to help with costs for plants or elements, it could be worthwhile if it boosts property value or appeal. Initial expenses for a pollinator-friendly yard might be high, but the long-term benefits could surpass them.
Developing a pollinator-friendly yard can enhance the value of your rental property. For advice, contact Real Property Management Oasis. We’re pleased to talk about how our property management services can enhance your investments in Arlington and surrounding areas. Contact us online or call 817-581-1574 today!
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