Landscaping News U Can Use: December 2009
New Jersey Goes Green for Christmas
In and around the New Jersey landscape, it’s sure beginning to look a lot like Christmas. While residents are happily stringing lights and blowing up inflatable reindeer, New Jersey officials have begun to think about possible power outages. But, as the Oakland Suburban News reports, New Jersyites are seeing green this holiday season.
Rick Kaiden, owner of Home Hardware in Waldwick, told the Suburban News that "the biggest trend this year is LED lights." Melissa Jacobsen (Jacobsen Landscaping in Midland Park) confirmed Kaiden’s observations by stating that many of her customers were also asking for LED lighting. Robert Schucker (R&S Landscaping in Midland) also noticed that his clients were seeking "more lighting using less power.
Clearly, many New Jersey residents are looking for ways to spread holiday cheer without paying a large electric bill — a trend that is expected to appear within other states as well.
Whether you hire a landscaper to light up your yard or whether you brave the cold on your own, there are some great ways that you can help to create a truly green scene this year. Consider these eco-alternatives in lieu of traditional landscaping decor:
- LED lights: These lights are energy efficient, they use less power and they will reduce your electricity bill. Sure, LED lights may be more expensive at first, but you’ll notice a big difference when your electricity bill comes at the end of the month.
- Think twice about inflatable decorations. While a giant Santa and 10 puffy snowmen may be a lot of fun, you’ll be using a lot of electricity just to keep up those displays. If you want to help the environment, consider scaling back on the number of inflatable decorations that you use this year.
- Look for products that are labelled "environmentally friendly" or "green." A lot of manufacturers are making some adjustments this year, so take advantage of the eco-trend.
- Make some of your outdoor items! Pick up a craft book or two and create a landscape that is full of homemade decorations-this can be a fun project for the whole family! Think about popcorn streamers, homemade wreaths and a large collection of wintry pinecones.
- Of course, you can also help save the planet inside your home by purchasing an artificial Christmas tree, using LED tree lights and using timers to turn lights on and off at certain times (there’s no need to keep all those lights on around the clock).
Christmas is supposed to be a fun time of year, but there’s no need to cause a neighborhood blackout. Instead, try some of the green landscaping tips mentioned above, and do your best to conserve energy this year!
Author Harriette Halepis is a writer based in Montreal. She specializes in DIY and modern interior design. Ask Harriette for advice on anything from vegetarian Canadian bacon to adding mod accents to your home décor.
