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 2020, more than 750 yards have been certified statewide.
To participate, follow a four-step process: download the workbook, watch short video lessons, take action in your own space, then certify your yard.
In practice, this includes actions such as:
- Using a rain gauge to avoid overwatering
- Providing food, shelter, or water for birds
- Keeping 2-3 inches of mulch in planting beds
- Removing invasive plants + planting native plants
Each action earns “inches” on a “yardstick” checklist used to track progress. With 72 inches to choose from, reaching 36 inches qualifies your yard for certification — whether you have a small lot or several acres.
Ready to get started? Find inspiration on this Smart Yard map, then head to local plant sales tomorrow.
