Though current landscaping practices are tasteful and aesthetically pleasing, they are not always eco-friendly. You can save time and money, while protecting the environment, by using eco-conscious landscaping techniques. Some fundamental guidelines to environmentally friendly landscaping are avoiding unnecessary water consumption, limiting chemical use, and recycling yard trimmings. A different method of residential and large-scale endeavors is vital since every endeavor can leave an undesirable eco-footprint.

Non-renewable energy powered tools and equipment are used for the upheaval of natural lands in urban and suburban development. The emissions of such items can constitute approximately 5% of urban air pollution. These developments also employ fertilizers, pesticides and foliage that need excessive upkeep. Community water systems and wildlife can be compromised from the hazardous chemicals destroying the makeup of the soils in these developments.

Balancing the ornamental beauty we desire with nature isn’t as difficult as it seems. By following some very smart and straightforward techniques, you can be on the right track into a greener future!

Environmentally Friendly Landscaping Techniques:

Plant Selection

Selecting certain plants won’t only keep the yard or development looking lush, it will help the smaller eco-system in your region. By choosing native plants that have evolutionarily acclimated to the surroundings, makes certain that maintenance in addition to chemicals and fertilizers are minimal. Your yard and also the surrounding environment can possibly be overtaken by invasive exotic plants, so you really should avoid the usage of them. It’s alright to have one or two exotic plant species however it is imperative that they are not aggressive and will easily proliferate. By instead planting woodlands, meadow or other native plants you are able to sustain and co-exist within the natural atmosphere. In areas that you require grass, make sure to use specially developed seeds that grow slow, use very little water, and require no fertilizer.
From Your Mouth to Your Lawn?

The easiest method to nourish your soil would be to supply the organic nutrients and minerals it requires to flourish. By laying down a 1 to 3 inch layer of compost or mulch, you negate the need for fertilizers or chemicals that could harm a nearby fauna. The easiest way to make compost or mulch would be to recycle yard clippings (grass, leaves, or wood chips), vegetable scraps, and coffee grinds. Make sure to aerate your pile every couple weeks and once it turns dark and uniform it may be applied to your vegetation. Dangerous compounds won’t ever be needed again!
Conservation

Plants and trees may suffer at times of drought. However, you can conserve water and keep the garden intact through the use of drought-tolerant plant species. Also, try adding some mulch or compost around your native plants to save on buying soil!

Reduce

The plants and trees around your house will save you much more money than you would imagine. Saving on air-conditioning costs during the warm months while still allowing light to shine in the windows in the winter can be achieved by planting deciduous trees (shedding foliage) in your yard. Strategically planting conifers helps to reduce winter winds dramatically so you can reduce gas or electric consumption. You can also reduce the use of power tools by downsizing your lawn size by planting native species.

Always take into account the effects connected with your actions – be it the color of the house or your gardening habits. You can help relieve the burden of human expansion to the eco-system by following these environmentally-friendly landscaping techniques. Mother nature will say thanks to you!