Cool Eco-Friendly Landscape Designs in Rockford
However, one spot that is often overlooked in terms of green thinking is our own green space! There is so much you can do in your yard to make it eco-friendly and beautiful. Green landscaping is the way forward and so many people are living truly green lifestyles by ensuring their outdoor spaces are as natural, self-sustaining, and chemical-free as possible. It is widely recognized that we need plants in order to provide essential oxygen within the earth’s atmosphere. They are in fact key to the healthy functioning of the ecosystem, and also to human health, too. That’s why every little eco-friendly change you make to your yard makes a real difference. We’ll provide a few tips for you to green your landscaping below.
What is Eco-Friendly Landscaping?
Eco-friendly landscape designs in Rockford, which is also known as green or sustainable landscaping, is a way of creating and maintaining land in order to save as much energy as possible, while also being kind to the environment. The problem with traditional landscaping methods is that they take a great deal of upkeep. Often, the economic and environmental costs far outweigh the actual natural benefits. When you think of the sheer amount of labor, energy, and water involved, surely there is a better way.
Sustainable landscapes are by design both in balance with their local climate, as well as being attractive. The use of non-electric and traditional gardening implements, such as handheld plant shears, is commonplace in order to avoid wasting resources and damaging delicate plants.
When considering eco-friendly landscape designs in Rockford, keep the following goals in mind:
- Reducing the consumption of water through xeriscaping (“dry landscaping”) – using plants that require less water
- Preserving water quality
- Reducing the costs of heating and cooling in your home
- Avoiding the use of pesticides
- Conserving natural resources
- Preventing the erosion of soil
- Promoting biodiversity [source: Ecological Landscaping Association]
- Then, work with a landscaper to figure out ways to accomplish your goals by combining structures, land features, and plants. You and your landscaper need to keep in mind the state the land is in now when planning out your new design.
Catalog the plants you already have, along with their wind exposure and sun and water needs. Consider the microclimates zones of light, soil acidity, water conditions, temperature, or species habitation of your existing plants. Check soil samples for composition, texture, fertility, pH levels, and moisture retention. Look for plants that are stressed or dying and determine the cause: pests, too much or too little water or light, etc. Work on a landscape design that will prevent soil erosion. Seek ways to resolve pest problems in the least toxic manner possible.