Groundcovers and grasses stabilize the soil with their root systems, reducing erosion caused by wind or water. Removing vegetation increases the risk of erosion.
Compost enriches soil with organic matter, improving nutrient availability and structure, which often reduces reliance on synthetic fertilizers.
Buffer zones, such as strips of grass or trees, reduce runoff and filter contaminants like fertilizers and pesticides, protecting nearby water bodies from pollution.
Rain gardens capture and filter stormwater runoff, preventing pollutants from entering waterways. Using impervious pavement or excessive pesticides would worsen runoff pollution.
Xeriscaping is a landscaping approach that emphasizes the use of drought-tolerant plants, efficient irrigation, and soil amendments to conserve water in arid and semi-arid regions.
