Owen E. Dell

If you want to create a sustainable landscape, examine your yard to determine what eco-friendly improvements can be made right away. Start conserving water and select plans that have similar temperature, sun, and water needs — and use environmentally-friendly landscaping methods — and you will be on your way

Getting to know your yard is the first step toward improving the sustainability of your landscape. You have to gather some information about your property, so grab a lawn chair, get comfortable, and consider these questions: How big is your lawn? The lawn has the most negative impacts of any landscape feature.

A key component of a sustainable landscape is water conservation. Ideally, creating a landscape that requires no, or very little irrigation, is the most sustainable option and it’s certainly possible. Use the following water-saving practices when planning your landscape: Pay attention to design. Group plants into hydrozones (areas containing plants with similar water needs) to ensure you aren’t wasting water.

Selecting and combining the right plants, trees, and shrubs will contribute to a beautiful, sustainable landscape that you can enjoy for years. Ask these key sustainability-oriented questions when mapping out plants for your yard: Is it adapted to your climate? Make sure your plants will tolerate the temperatures, winds, humidity, and seasonal rhythms that occur where you live.

Skipping over conventional landscaping practices and moving to sustainable techniques will help the environment, save you money, and still deliver beautiful landscaping results. Try these alternatives for sustainable landscaping methods: Alternatives to Power Equipment Power Tool Sustainable Alternatives Ga