RODALE NEWS, CAMBRIDGE, MA—A small test plot investigating organic landscaping methods at Harvard University has proved so successful, the world-famous Ivy League institute is mandating that all 80 acres of its campus be organic within the next two years. Since we were already in Boston for Natural Products Expo East, Rodale.com headed over to Cambridge to see the University's progress on the organic front for ourselves.

THE DETAILS: As part of the Harvard Yard Soils Restoration Project, Harvard's landscaping services team created a one-acre test plot and quickly upgraded to 25 acres, where they started applying compost and compost tea (made by steeping compost in water), instead of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers.

Shortly afterwards, the evidence was clear. Roots in the plot sample were more than twice as deep as chemical plants. That's because microorganisms under the soil that are usually killed off during chemical applications flourish in an organic system. This helps aerate the soil, so roots can breathe and absorb more water. And just as researchers have found at the Rodale Institute, the soil now has beneficial bacteria and fungi and the microorganisms that feed on them, recycling nitrogen back into the soil. According to a New York Times article on the project, the organic landscaping method has reduced the need for irrigation by 30 percent, saving 2 million gallons of water a year. Harvard will also save a sweet $10,000 annually by nixing chemical fertilizers. The school saves another $35,000 through reduced irrigation needs, and by composting tons of clippings and leaves instead of sending them to the landfill.

WHAT IT MEANS: Hopefully, Harvard's choice will start a trend. Given that chronic exposure to pesticides can increase your risk of developing lymphoma and Parkinson's disease later in life, organic landscaping seems like a no-brainer. Worse yet, a recent study found that one of the nation's most commonly used herbicides, Roundup, is much more toxic than originally believed. But many college and universities, and elementary, middle, and high school maintenance plans include applying a brew of harmful chemicals to fields and lawn areas. Concerned parents—and students—can lobby their educational institutions to switch to organic, making a case on both health and economic grounds. That said, to plant the seeds of organic landscaping at your school or university, it's important to practice what you preach.

Here are some fall organic landscaping tips for your lawn and garden that will ensure a lush spring.