When we moved into our Texas home, the backyard was covered in Bermuda grass—a non-native variety that’s great for playing on but doesn’t contribute much to our local ecosystem. So we kicked off Project: Kill the Lawn—just in the backyard, of course. (We have an HOA, so the front yard has different rules.)
Jacob and I have different visions for what a backyard should be, so we compromised. Some space is reserved for lawn, and the rest is dedicated to growing areas and pollinator gardens.
After about a year and a half—and with help from some amazing friends—we successfully eradicated the last of the Bermuda grass. We tried growing buffalo grass from seed… and failed. Miserably. The yard turned into a bit of a wasteland, and the lack of vegetation was causing drainage issues since dry, compacted soil doesn’t absorb water well.
Eventually, we bought buffalo grass sod and laid the whole backyard—again, with a little help from our friends.
Buffalo grass is native, requires significantly less water, and has a deeper root system that helps retain moisture and reduces stormwater runoff. The first few months took some diligent watering, but now that it’s established, it pretty much takes care of itself.
Jacob and I have a “mow area” and a “mow every once in a while” area. The coolest, most magical part of the mow every once in a while zone? Wild dill has started growing there—and it happens to be a favorite host plant for Black Swallowtail caterpillars. Which means: butterflies!
So far, we’ve spotted about five caterpillars, and the kids are experimenting with creating a chrysalis habitat so they can watch the transformation up close. If you have tips for building habitats or best practices for releasing butterflies, we’re all ears.
It’s amazing how quickly nature responds when we make space for it. Butterfly populations in the U.S. have declined by 22% in the last two decades—largely due to choices we make in our own yards. But even without the statistics, I just love watching how excited the kids get as they discover new insects all around them.
Anyway… thanks for coming to my rant. Really, this post is just me being excited about finding three caterpillars outside today. Yes, it might be my highlight of the week—but that means it’s been a good one. 😅
In the quest for a sustainable backyard, selecting the right grass is crucial. Buffalo grass, known for its drought resistance and deep roots, can significantly improve soil health and support local ecosystems. It's essential to understand that non-native grasses like Bermuda can lead to water wastage and increased pest issues. By choosing to remove Bermuda grass, we invested in native flora that fosters biodiversity. Establishing a backyard wildlife habitat can be incredibly rewarding. Start by incorporating native plants that provide food and shelter for various species, especially pollinators. For those interested in butterflies, host plants like wild dill not only attract these beautiful insects but also offer educational opportunities for children to observe their life cycle—something we've enjoyed immensely. Create diverse spaces within your yard, such as low-mow areas, to allow nature to flourish undisturbed. This approach not only reduces maintenance but also enhances the beauty of your outdoor space. Furthermore, taking the time to educate oneself and family about local wildlife can deepen your connection with nature and foster environmental stewardship. Remember, every small change can make a substantial impact on wildlife conservation.
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