Rewilding is a conservation strategy that allows nature to reclaim and restore itself by letting natural processes shape land.
Why this recipe matters
Traditional lawns may look neat, but they often lack biodiversity and require chemicals and water that can harm and deplete the environment. By rewilding your yard, you can create a thriving habitat for local wildlife, reduce water usage, and support healthier ecosystems—all while cutting down on yard maintenance. As wildlife returns and thrives, it fosters the development of wilder, more diverse habitats rich in biodiversity.
Ingredients
- A section of your yard you'd like to rewild (you can start small or go big!)
- Native plants, shrubs, or small trees suited to your region
- Wildflower seeds for pollinators
- Mulch or compost for soil health
- Tools for planting (shovel, rake, trowel)
- A plan for reducing or eliminating your lawn (or a portion of it)
- A bird feeder or bee hotel (optional, but great for wildlife)
- Self-education materials on local native plants and wildlife
Recipe
1. Identify a piece of land to rewild.
- Whether it’s an empty lot, a portion of a park, or even your yard. Check with local authorities if permissions are needed for public spaces.
- If you plan to rewild your front yard and happen to have an HOA, you may need to present them with your idea before moving forward.
2. Research native plants and wildlife.
- Native species local to your area help restore the natural ecosystem and attract wildlife like birds, butterflies, and pollinators.
3. Remove invasive species.
- Gather volunteers to help pull weeds, cut back overgrown invasive plants, and prepare the soil for planting.
- Clear any existing debris and invasive species from the space.
4. Plant native species.
- Using seeds, seedlings, or young trees. Focus on a mix of plants that will attract local wildlife and support biodiversity.
5. Install educational signage.
- Use small signage to inform the community about your rewilding project, the importance of biodiversity, and how they can get involved.
- Be sure to include information on the wildlife the project aims to support.
6. Maintain the rewilded area.
- Your rewilded space may need some occasional weeding and care, but allow nature to take its course.
- Add some bird feeders or bee hotels to attract more wildlife!
Nutritional information
How this recipe has nurtured a community
We haven't tried this one yet, but we'd love to hear from you if you did! Did you rewild your yard? What wildlife have you noticed visiting your newly rewilded space? What about any benefits you've seen to the local ecosystem? Please let us know in the comments how rewilding your yard has nurtured your community!
Finishing touch
Encourage a sense of community ownership by hosting seasonal planting and observation days, where neighbors can help maintain the space, learn about the local ecosystem, and enjoy watching the rewilded area thrive. You may even invite volunteers and local schools to use the space for environmental education.