What is Low Maintenance Turf? Low maintenance turf functions as a typical lawn but is made up of species that require less water, fertilizers, pesticides, and mowing than Kentucky bluegrass. Most low maintenance lawns are a mix of fine and/or tall fescues, both cool-season grasses that are shade and drought-tolerant. The benefits of fescues include:…
What is a Pollinator Lawn? Bee lawns are made of a tight mix of grasses and low-growing perennials that can be used and treated much like a regular lawn but also offer high-quality nutrition to pollinators. Why should I plant a Pollinator Lawn? Pollinator populations have been declining in part due to habitat loss, pesticide…
Do you have areas in your yard where grass doesn’t want to grow? A native garden may be the solution.
Our Blue Thumb Partners are a collection of public organizations and private companies committed to funding, designing, creating, maintaining and teaching about landscapes that contribute to a healthy ecosystem and… Read More →
Explore the tabs below for free downloads on a variety of topics related to planting for clean water and pollinators. For guides on specific types of native planting projects, you can also visit our Rain Gardens, Shoreline Stabilization, Turf Alternatives, and Steps to Plant for Pollinators pages.
Who We Are Blue Thumb—Planting for Clean Water® is a network of clean water and native plant stewards creating change to bridge the gap between knowledge and action by offering resources and programs to Minnesotan residents. Our Finest on Earth™ Blue Thumb Partners include local governmental units, non-profit organizations, and private companies all working toward…
Please submit a message to us through the form below; we will respond as quick as we can. Our small team does not have the capacity to give gardening advice, but we are happy to address any questions related to Blue Thumb resources and programming. Thank you!
Many Blue Thumb Partners offer grants for individuals or organizations looking to build projects that improve water quality or create habitat for pollinators. Browse the list below to find funding opportunities that best fit your needs!
Shore Up Your Shoreline Is your lakeshore eroding, unsightly or attracting too many geese? Does your lake water turn green each summer? Native plants stabilize shorelines and act as a buffer between your yard and the lake. The roots of native plants filter and absorb polluted runoff and excess nutrients before they enter the water.…
Do you have areas in your yard where grass doesn’t want to grow? A native garden may be the solution.
