Yesterday, I weeded my soft landing around our Maple tree. After that simple chore, all my family walked to the store. I was struck, during my walk, by how many mature trees were surrounded by nothing but lawn grass.
American Goldfinch
Did you know that Oak Trees host over 500 species of moths and butterflies? Did you know that 90% of these species lay eggs in the tree, but the caterpillar will drop down to the ground after hatching to feed? The beneficial species will die if they drop and find only turf grass. Pests, such as armyworm larvae, will drop to the grass and destroy what they can devour (These are typically the brown spots in your yard). The solution is simple, beautiful, and ecologically balanced.
A soft landing around any tree can ensure that these beneficial caterpillars will not be lost to the mower, but instead become a part of the circle of life. That circle may mean becoming a butterfly one day. Just as important, however, is the food source they provide for bird chicks. Songbirds require from 6,000-9,000 caterpillars to raise a nest from egg to fledgling. Giving these caterpillars a place to feed will bring birds that want to eat them. When we returned home from our walk, we found two birds in our garden searching for food. It was so satisfying that our little garden was fulfilling its purpose.
We can do so much for our wildlife by making small, purposeful changes to our yards. Installing a 100 ft2 soft landing establishes balance with mother nature, eliminates lawn bare spots from shading, and does wonder for curb appeal.
Learn more: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-19565-4
