The 90-Day Plan: DAY 52

DAY 52 MULCH IT! The summer heat adds stress to trees, bushes, and other plants by speeding up transpiration (or the evaporation of water from parts of the plant). SPREAD A LAYER OF MULCH around all plants outdoors to help minimize water loss. Using a two-three inch layer of mulch around plants is also a natural way to keep weeds under control. Challenge: Composting organic materials such as yard clippings and kitchen waste prevents hundreds of pounds sent to the landfill every year and saves water if you use this instead of the garbage disposal. Design a plan to build a compost bin at home. For More Information: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/FEATURE/backyard/mulching.html http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/swfa/kidsPage/compost.html