Plan ahead for eco-friendly landscapes

Eco-friendly landscapes can protect the environment and help homeowners save money. While it’s possible to alter landscapes during summer, it’s easier and more cost-effective to plan ahead for eco-friendly landscapes. Planning ahead can ensure homeowners that their lawns and gardens conserve water throughout the spring and summer. Such planning can save homeowners substantial amounts of money when summer temperatures rise and put a strain on lawns, plants and gardens that need more water than usual. Homeowners who want their landscapes to thrive while benefitting the environment can take the following steps as lawn and garden season approaches. • Research native plants. Native plants typically require considerably less water than exotic plants that do not naturally grow in particular areas. In addition, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency notes that native plants have adapted to local soil conditions, making them less likely to need fertilizer and more resistant to pests and diseases than non-native plants. That resistance saves homeowners from having to use potentially harmful pesticides. • Design smart. When designing your landscape layout, group plants according to how much or how little water they need. This prevents overwatering plants that do not need much water, which can harm the plant and lead to unnecessary water waste, and ensures plants that do need substantial amounts of water have those needs met. • Consider the elements. When planting, consider how much natural sunlight each area of the yard gets before planting. Plants planted in areas that are especially exposed to the sun may require extra watering, as the hot summer sun can cause water to evaporate, depriving plants of the water they need to thrive. In addition to the sun, wind can divert water meant for plants and grass, so plant appropriately in areas that are exposed to sun and wind. • Work with a professional. Professional landscapers and landscape architects can be invaluable resources for homeowners who want their properties to be as eco-friendly as possible. The desire for eco-friendly landscapes has risen in recent years, and many professional landscapers and architects are familiar with various ways to make lawns and gardens more environmentally friendly. Eco-friendly landscaping is a wise investment for homeowners who want to help the planet and save money at the same time. Planning to make such an investment in advance of spring and summer is a great way to produce a beautiful and eco-friendly landscape.