The following are five elements to incorporate into your landscaping to achieve a more eco-friendly yard.
Design with your climate zone in mind
This is the starting point of any eco-friendly landscape and often overlooked. People fall in love with a plant or tree that is not indigenous to their area and become convinced they can make it thrive. They often spend much time, water, and plant food trying to keep the plant alive. The fact is plants grow in a particular area because they have adapted to that climate. They will use less water and be healthier in their indigenous environment. Consult a professional landscaper for helping choosing plants, flowers and trees that will thrive in your yard. You may be surprised at all the choices available to you.
Design your layout and irrigation system
After selecting the plants that will make up your landscaping, you will need to design their layout according to their water needs. A professional landscaper can help you with this but the concept is pretty simple. Group plants that need roughly the same amount of water together. If they need to be watered daily they should be in close proximity to each other. That way you are conserving water in low water use zones, and not wasting water in high water use zones. You can set up your irrigation system accordingly. Not only will you save water, but you will ensure all your plants are getting the water they need to be their healthiest.
Create shade
By creating some shaded areas in your landscaping you can keep the temperatures down, sometimes as much as 20°F less, and thus use less water. The added benefit of you and your family being able to spend more time in these areas and fully enjoy them is an added plus.
Soil
Now that you have everything selected and laid out, you will need to select your soil mixture. Keep in mind that chemicals are harmful to your family, your pets, and the environment. Your plants do need minerals to be their healthiest, such as phosphorus, nitrogen, etc. To make a positive impact on the environment choose organic materials such as compost, manure, bone meal and Epsom salt. A professional landscaper can help you obtain the right mixture for your climate and plantings.
Mulching
It is imperative to lay down a thick layer of mulch after all your plantings are in place. The mulch holds moisture in, conserving your water. Mulching will also help prevent unwanted weeds or grass from growing which will quickly steal the water intended for your plantings. Mulch will add an element of beauty and design as it comes in a variety of colors and textures to complement your landscaping and home’s exterior.
By following all of these steps you will be sure to have a beautiful and environmentally efficient landscape. Seeking the help of a professional contractor experienced in landscaping design will make this task much easier and smoother. They will suggest plants you may not have heard of, the latest technologies in irrigation, and the best design layout for your yard and house.
More information about landscaping and professional landscaping contractors.
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Article by Jennifer Weldon
