BY BONNIE LEE STRUNK

Special to The Press

Sometimes I think I have a magic window in my kitchen.

A friend or relative will look out that back window and exclaim that I have a “park” for a backyard.

Then a few days later, someone else will look through that same window and declare my yard is a “jungle.”

These reactions perfectly exemplify the old cliché, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.”

Personally, I like what I see.

When it comes to landscaping, I prefer the natural look.

Indeed, over the years, my husband and I got rid of all the grass and replaced it with native shrubs, trees and perennials.

Although I have very few, dandelions are pretty to me.

To some folks, however, they are a weed.

Actually, the word “weed” generally means any undesirable plant.

A tulip popping up in the middle of a yard would be considered a weed to many people.

As my sister learned, one person’s weed is another’s treasure.

A few years ago she was in my backyard and bent down to pull up a dandelion.

“Stop,” I yelled, startling her. “But it’s a weed,” she protested.

“I like it; let it be,” I told her.

And now I am vindicated.

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources recently announced we should leave the dandelions alone.

These plants provide an early food source for important pollinators, such as bees.

In addition, insects use dandelions for shelter, and the seeds and leaves feed birds and other wildlife.

According to the DCNR, these plants also provide nutrients to the soil and create drainage and help prevent erosion.

As an added bonus, dandelions are edible by humans.

I remember having the leaves in tasty salads when I was a kid.

And I have seen them for sale in the produce department of my supermarket.

If the recent heat wave is any indication of what our summer will be like, now would be a good time to plant some natives, which can survive for long periods without water, once they are established.

Natural landscaping conserves water that otherwise would be used for lawn irrigation, because most turf grasses need a lot of watering during hot and dry summers.

In addition, less lawn to mow means reduced air and noise pollution.

Native plants can save homeowners both time and money, and can benefit native wildlife.

For example, instead of putting up multiple feeders, attract birds with the flowers, fruits and berries of native plants.

Natural landscaping also can reduce electric use and cost.

Trees and shrubs can be planted to provide shade and windbreaks, lowering the costs of home air conditioning and heating.

And, of course, trees help us by absorbing carbon dioxide and providing us with life-sustaining oxygen.

Creating a more natural landscape will have a positive effect on much more than wildlife, the environment and our wallets.

As we celebrate Earth Day, spend some time relaxing in nature.

The natural world has life-affirming and healing power.

The sheer awe and beauty of nature can be a much-needed source of peace and solace during difficult moments in our lives.

When feeling stressed, slow down and walk away from the electronic devices and televisions and connect with nature.

The experience boosts our physical, mental and emotional health.

It clears our minds and provides a sense of well-being.

We all need to find our special place in the outdoors to reboot our lives during these unsettled times.

Each of us is connected to nature. It isn’t a place to visit; it is our home.

By discovering ways to conserve and restore the wonder and beauty of the natural world in our own personal spaces, we are reflecting our commitment to ensuring a healthier and happier future for generations to come.