At Earthwise Seed Co., we believe that sustainable lawns can thrive anywhere—from backyards to some of the most important landscapes in the country. That’s why we’re proud to share that the U.S. Capitol Grounds and Arboretum, under the direction of Supervisory Horticulturist Eric Calhoun, has chosen Earthwise alternative lawn seeds for multiple projects across the historic grounds.
The Capitol’s Grounds: History Meets Sustainability
The Capitol Grounds cover nearly 300 acres and have evolved from untamed woodland to the carefully designed landscapes envisioned by Frederick Law Olmsted in the 1870s. His plan emphasized natural beauty and harmony with the building’s architecture—a philosophy that continues today. In 2017, the Capitol Grounds were officially recognized as an arboretum, home to hundreds of tree species and diverse plantings.
But the grounds are more than ornamental. They are part of a long-term vision of stewardship, preservation, and sustainability led by the Architect of the Capitol (AOC).
Energy & Environmental Leadership
The AOC’s sustainability efforts extend far beyond the soil. Over the past decade, they have:
- Cut energy intensity by more than 50%, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Invested over $200 million in energy-efficient infrastructure upgrades.
- Reduced the carbon footprint of House buildings by nearly 48%.
By choosing alternative lawn seed, the Capitol Grounds team is extending these goals to the landscape itself: conserving water, reducing mowing and chemical inputs, and supporting biodiversity across its nationally significant lawns.
Why Earthwise?
Eric Calhoun and his team have returned to Earthwise for seed orders because our mixes offer:
- Drought resilience to withstand D.C.’s hot summers.
- Low-maintenance beauty that reduces labor and fuel use.
- Pollinator support through clovers and native species.
In short: our seeds align perfectly with the Capitol’s goals of creating landscapes that are both functional and sustainable.
Leading the Nation by Example
The U.S. Capitol is more than a workplace for Congress—it is the stage on which America presents itself to the world. By choosing Earthwise, the Capitol is showing that sustainability and beauty can go hand in hand.
And here’s the truth: if Earthwise seeds are good enough for the Capitol, they’re good enough for your lawn, park, or city landscape.
Explore Earthwise’s Alternative Lawn Mixes and start planting the same sustainable solutions trusted at the U.S. Capitol.