photo from Unsplash by Brooke Lark
What is a sustainable landscape design?
For me that means a landscape design which incorporates native plantings and materials which will stand the test of time. It can be tempting to create a landscape design which mimics and English Country Garden, and we will happily design something like that for you, but if you truly want to minimize your impact on the earth’s resources, a much better idea is landscaping that fits your environment. Using solar lighting versus lighting which requires electricity is one way to keep your landscape sustainable. Mulching around your flower beds will protect your plants and hold water better. Permeable pavers and drought tolerant trees and perennials will also help.
Each of these things, when done properly will give you a relatively low maintenance yard and the overall plan with save you money in the long run. We can also draw up a landscape plan which has a smaller area of grass. Grass takes watering and feeding, and while it can be lovely to look at, it’s not very efficient. Instead we can make a smaller patch of grass interspersed with native grasses and plants with color to make a fuss free, low water landscape.
Don’t mistake the words sustainable landscape for boring landscape. On the contrary, it would be our goal to make your energy, water efficient landscaping the envy of your neighborhood. There are so many beautiful, hearty plants that thrive here in our area. Your landscaping will look sumptuous. For example, I found this article in Southern Living all about Landscape Ideas in the south, and one of the things they mentioned were lilies:
“4. Plant No-Fuss Lilies
When we talk about a rough-and-tumble, resilient plant, this is what we’re thinking of. Crinums laugh at drought, don’t need fertilizer, and welcome hot, humid summers with lily-like flowers that perfume the air. Because they grow into huge bulbs over time, they’re practically indestructible. If you need a low-maintenance, high-impact flower, this low-fuss lily will be your go-to plant. They come in an array of rainbow hues, ensuring that your yard will be adorned in your favorite vibrant colors. These plants like sun and don’t care much about the sort of soil in which you plant them. We wish more plants were this low-maintenance.”
Keep checking our blog for more photos of our landscape designs and hints on how to make your home more attractive with a lovely yard!
John Plantenberg
#verobeach #landscpape and #hardscape #pavers
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