1KHO 461: Stop Mowing, Start Growing | Douglas Tallamy, Nature's Best Hope

In this eye-opening episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, Ginny Yurich welcomes renowned entomologist and author Douglas Tallamy to help us rethink what it means to care for our yards—and our planet. Tallamy explains why America’s 44 million acres of lawn are ecological dead zones, consuming billions of gallons of water, massive amounts of pesticides, and precious hours of our time—while giving almost nothing back to the environment. But there’s a better way. From planting native trees like oaks to encouraging blooming plants that feed pollinators all season long, Tallamy shows how small changes in our yards can create massive ripples for biodiversity, conservation, and climate resilience. Tallamy introduces his revolutionary concept of the Homegrown National Park —a grassroots movement to convert half of America’s lawns into thriving ecosystems that support insects, birds, and other wildlife right outside our windows. He shares powerful facts, practical advice, and captivating personal stories, including how thousands of caterpillars are needed to raise just one nest of chickadees and why giving kids hands-on access to nature can transform not just their health, but their ecological literacy. This episode is a call to action for families who want to turn their homes into havens—for both people and the planet. **** Get your copy of Nature's Best Hope here Learn more about Douglas Tallamy here ** A huge thank you to our sponsors! Check them ALL out below: Geviti: Visit https://www.gogeviti.com/1000hoursoutside for 20% off your first three months of membership! Active Skin Repair: Visit www.ActiveSkinRepair.com to learn more about Active Skin Repair and their commitment to 1% for the planet and use code: 1000hours to save 20% on all Active Skin Repair products Select Quote: Head to www.selectquote.com/1000hours to learn more. Crowd Health: Learn more at www.joincrowdhealth.com and get started today for just $99 per month for your first three months by using code 1000HOURS. GoMinno: Download the Minno App or visit www.GoMinno.com to become a member TODAY! BetterHelp: Visit www.BetterHelp.com/1000HOURS today to get 10% off your first month. Thrive Market: Visit www.thrivemarket.com/1000hours for 30% off your first order plus a FREE $60 gift! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices