Curious how you can make your yard smarter?
Tennessee Smart Yards is a UT Extension initiative aimed at protecting water, improving soil, and supporting wildlife in residential yards. Since launching in October 2020, it has certified more than 750 yards statewide.
To participate, follow a four-step process: download the workbook, learn from experts through short video lessons, take action in your own space, then certify your yard.
In practice, this might include actions such as:
- Swapping invasive plants for native plants
- Keeping 2-3 inches of mulch in planting beds
- Using a rain gauge to avoid overwatering
- Spot-treating pests instead of spraying broadly
- Providing food, shelter, or water for birds
Each action earns “inches” on a “yardstick” checklist that tracks your progress. With 72 inches to choose from, reaching 36 inches qualifies your yard for certification — whether you have a small lot or several acres.
Bonus: Explore existing Smart Yards to spark ideas for your own space.
