Many urban yards are essentially unproductive patches of grass, requiring constant attention for no return. Through sustainable, organic landscaping, these small or large plots of land can become part of the solution to today's environmental challenges.

Eco-yards supports the vision of a healthy, abundant planet in which beautiful, richly varied urban yards contribute to restoring the natural ecosystem. This inspiring and practical, well-illustrated manual includes clear, easy-to-follow instructions for:

• designing and maintaining an eco-yard
• making your yard water-wise
• understanding basic soil science
• replacing your lawn with tree, shrub and flower beds or hardy, low-maintenance grass
• growing vegetables in the eco-yard

Visionary, hopeful and encouraging, Eco-yards is a must-read for anyone who wants to use environmentally sound practices when they garden, whether in a residential yard or on the balcony of a condo or high-rise apartment. If you're sick of the backyard battle, this book will show you how to work with nature instead of fighting it, using simple steps that apply practically anywhere to turn your yard into an eco-friendly sanctuary.

Laureen Rama is a landscape designer whose lifelong passion is beautifying landscapes in ways that enhance the natural environment. She is the founder of Eco-yards, which provides natural landscape design, installation, consultation, and education in Calgary, Alberta. Laureen has also worked as an international development educator, public involvement consultant, and a management consultant specializing in creativity.

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