Old defunct lawn mowers that are not operating still have some use. Remove blade, motor, cords, wires and gas tank, leaving four-wheeled caddy and its push handle. Secure a box to this and create a wheeled cart that is perfect for harvesting or toting material around property.

The metal frame of most lawn mowers is recyclable and its' wheels are often prized by workshop-creation crafters. The motor and remaining parts might also be appreciated at a repair shop where they could be reused.

There are alternatives to traditional grass, from wildflower mixes to low-growing ground covers, which rarely need mowing. Landscaping a portion or entire area with drought tolerant, wildlife supporting plants is a very environmentally active engagement that either eliminates or reduces mowing needs. And really, who couldn't use a little more time on their hands?

So get your exercise, reduce air and noise pollution; save yourself some money and have a healthier lawn. Or let sun run mower for you. Either way, world will breathe a little easier and maybe you will hear a songbird or two.

-- Written by Dave and Lillian Brummet based on the concept of their book, Trash Talk. The book offers useful solutions for the individual to reduce waste and better manage resources. A guide for anyone concerned about their impact on the environment. (http://www.sunshinecable.com/~drumit)

A native of Mexico, this half-hardy perennial is a sun loving plant that is moderately drought tolerant.

You’ll most easily grow chocolate cosmos from transplants purchased at your local garden center or nursery. Large clumps of established plants can also be divided to provide as many as three or four transplants.

Plant chocolate cosmos in organically rich, well-drained soil in a location that gets full sun. Keep transplants moist until they established roots and you see beginnings of some new growth.

In fall, when foliage dies back, cut plants back to about two inches from root and over-winter them in a frost-free area. Chocolate cosmos is hardy in zones 7-10. In these zones, you may opt to cover plants with a cloche to protect them from danger of frost.

Linda is the leading author of: Gardening Guides Hundreds of Free Articles on Flower Gardening, Fruit Vegetable and Container Gardening plus tips on Garden Design