Imagine the Potential of All Those Manicured Lawns

Originally posted on February 11, 2021

Think about the power of all the perfectly manicured, monoculture lawns in a developed area. What if they were transformed into vibrant ecosystems, buzzing with life and brimming with purpose?

Everywhere I’ve lived, I’ve planted a garden. But this garden is different—it began with the soil. When I started, it was nothing but lifeless clay, a foundation struggling to support even the simplest life.

There’s ongoing debate among scientists about which element holds the key to mitigating the negative impacts of human activity. Some argue it’s water, in its many forms, that plays the most significant role in reducing carbon in the atmosphere. Others point to plants, especially trees, as the ultimate solution.

For me, it all begins with the soil.

Soil is the foundation of all life above it. It supports the plants that do the heavy lifting in a cycle of succession, eventually giving rise to trees and robust ecosystems. When soil is nurtured and restored through regenerative practices, its capacity for life increases exponentially. Plants establish themselves, biodiversity thrives within the soil, and intricate root systems channel water deep into the earth.

Healthy, living soil is more than just a base—it’s an ally. It’s capable of sequestering carbon and sustaining ecosystems that work in harmony to heal the planet.

By focusing on the ground beneath our feet, we create the foundation for enduring change. Imagine the transformation if even a fraction of our lawns embraced this approach. The possibilities are as endless as the life within the soil itself.