7 Tips for Eco-Friendly Commercial Landscape Design
Sustainable landscapes are finally having their moment to shine. Everywhere we turn, there are more companies and owners wanting to make their properties environmentally friendly.
And, not only do these upgrades have a significant impact on the landscape around them but it actually saves the owner’s money, requires less maintenance, and protects the area from ruin.
So, if you’re thinking of making some green upgrades consider giving our tips below a try.
1. Use Pollinators
Create a robust ecosystem around your landscape by using pollinators in the garden and flower beds. That’s because insects such as moths, bees, and butterflies rely on these types of plants as a food source. So, it’s important these animals have access to them to prevent species decline. Additionally, pollinators are a great way to support crops and produce growth as a tonne of flowering plants rely on them to produce seeds.
2. Choose Native Plants
If there are trees or plants on your property, it’s best to choose ones that are native to the area. That’s because, native plants support local wildlife, and are acclimated to the weather, climate, and rainfall patterns. Meaning, that they will require less maintenance as they won’t need as much fertilizer, pesticides, or water to stay alive. In turn, making a smaller eco-footprint.
3. Consider Synthetics
There are many different types of hardscapes and synthetic materials available instead of plants, trees, and grass. Installing something like artificial grass over an area actually requires less maintenance, fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and water. Making its impact on the surrounding environment much less harmful.
4. Mulch
Another idea to make a landscape more environmentally friendly is to use mulch. Any type of organic mulch such as wood chips, leaves, pine needles, and bark helps to keep the environment intact by regulating soil temperature. In turn, working to keep plants alive and healthy for much longer. It does this by breaking down over time and releasing nutrients back into the soil.
This makes it the perfect material to place at the root areas of the trees and plants as they will keep them healthy.
5. Harvest Rainwater
One of the simplest ways to give back to your landscape is to harvest rainwater. When rainwater is used on things like plants, flowers, and vegetable gardens, it will greatly reduce the amount of water used to maintain the property.
So, consider capturing rainwater from places like roofs and gutters. Both of which also prevent pollution from entering the water supply. To do this, consider the use of cisterns, rain chains, or barrels. Even some decorative items like watering cans can be used to capture it.
6. Green Roofs
There’s no reason to stop at the landscape when it comes to upgrading a property’s green space. For owners that really want an eco-friendly upgrade, consider installing a green roof. A green roof is a great option for owners who might be short on space but want to maximize what they have. That’s because an eco-friendly roof reduces the energy use of a property by adding insulation. This insulation keeps cool and warm air inside. In turn, requiring less energy throughout the year to maintain.
Additionally, a green roof minimizes water runoff. Water runoff can be harmful to the surrounding environment seeing as it could contain harmful pesticides and herbicides. But, with the help of a green roof, this risk is minimized.
7. Use Natural Products
Making a space ‘green’ doesn’t stop at what is planted and installed. It extends to the maintenance and products that are used for it throughout the year. That’s why it’s important to only use natural pest control and herbicide options.
Otherwise, products that are full of chemicals can be detrimental to both the environment, local wildlife, and a person’s health. Certain products have been known to cause adverse reactions, especially to things like insects and bees. So be sure to use natural sprays, or techniques (such as hand-removal of weeds) to ensure your space remains eco-friendly.
Eco-Friendly Commercial Landscape Design
At State of the Art Landscaping, we know how important it is to take care of your outdoor space. That’s why we believe in using eco-friendly methods and designs. We can assess, customize, and build you the outdoor green space you and the environment deserve.
So, if you’re interested in seeing how your property can be upgraded with eco-friendly designs consider getting in touch with a member of our team today by contacting us today.