If I never mowed my backyard, Would a natural prairie be restored??

Question

Would bluestem (prarie grass) take over?

Answer 1

It depends on where you live. Whatever the topography of your backyard and the local ecosystem is, the "natural" restoration of your backyard would follow the same ecological succession pattern of your local ecosystem. With that said, if you live in the dead center of a sub-division, it might never happen, as the species which dictate your areas ecological succession might not have the ability to propagate in your backyard due to distance from it's sources.

If the end of your areas ecological succession is the bluestem and it is near to your backyard, chances are after some years it would be restored to this state.

Answer 2

Probably not. Most places where people live - even if it's out in the country - have way too many "introduced" plants: some are domesticated ones and some are non-native invaders. A lot of people would be surprised at just how many varieties of plants are not native to this country, much less to a specific region. You could restore a section of land to natural prarie but it would probably take a fair amount of work.

Answer 3

Probably not unless you tear out what you already have planted there and keep the neighbors grass and other plantings from encroaching AND replace the natural flora and fauna of the area, unless there is a natural prairie area adjacent to your property which could naturally take over. (In my town I'd get a citation from the city once the grass reached 10" and the neighborhood idiot started complaining).

Answer 4

No, since the environment has been changed by the introduction of European earthworms, invasive plant and insect species etc. However, you _can_ make a more wildlife friendly habitat in your yard. National Wildlife Federation and Audubon Society have some ideas, and you might check with a local college, agricultural agency or state or national park services for some more.
This morning I awoke to the sounds of different birds and enjoyed relaxing to that sound for a while before the alarm clock rang. You have a great idea! Take advantage of it.

Answer 5

It depends. Depending on what you have planted already, it may not be able to take root. Also the balance or a natural prairie would not be there due to the proximity of the house, the lack of wildlife, etc.

Answer 6

I have a huge backyard it would be a wilderness on its own if you have that prairie grass already yes it would be restored

Answer 7

Our neighbor allowed his yard to revert back to nature. His property bloomed with wildflowers and grasses. Many butterflies and bird species came into the area. However, you may have to help jump start your lawn by bringing in seed from native plants. NOTE: Fortunately we live in the country, if you try it in the city you could be cited for failing to maintain your property.

Answer 8

only if you had prairie animals grazing on you lawn
the animals are part of the natural eco systems
their manner of feeding ,foot prints and excrement ,

and most prairies were a collection of many different grasses,in South Africa as many as 50 species of plants and grasses were found on the highvelds(grasslands)

Answer 9

It depends on where you live and what the natural prairie was and whether there are remnants in your lawn or very nearby so it could be restored.

Answer 10

I think the real question you should be asking yourself is - when you have your prairie...will yours be a little house on a prairie?