When creating a landscaped area, people tend to go for three things, low maintenance, aesthetic appeal and sustainability. Aesthetics are especially important for people who may be looking to sell their home in the next few years. Low maintenance and sustainability go hand in hand. Most people don't mind spending time working in their yard, but they don't want it to be time drain, taking away from other activities they enjoy. Finding that perfect balance is what makes the right landscape design so ideal.
Choose Plants That are Ever-Green
Choose plants that are “evergreen”. These plants and shrubs will remain green throughout the year and will possibly bloom two or three times. They are not bothered by temperature change and will not change color or drop their leaves as the seasons change. Talking to a local landscaper will give you an idea of some of the foliage that will work well in your area. Holly, juniper and cypress are just a few varieties that are ever-green. They not only provide a beautiful array of green hues, most are very aromatic and will give your lawn a certain “air” that is relaxing and peaceful.
Include Hardscaping Concepts
Including hardscaping concepts like pea gravel ground cover sets the tone and will require very little maintenance. Stone boundaries and flower boxes are ideal ways to contain an area and accent specific sections. Stone and cement pavers come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors and can be used in many different capacities. They can be used to create intricate designs or simply to outline landscaped areas setting them apart from the rest of the lawn.
Design for Your Area
Your location and the general climate for your area will play a role in the design you choose for your landscaping. Climate will also play a large role in the type of plants you choose, especially if you are trying to create a sustainable environment that requires minimal maintenance. Certain types of plants must be replaced or trimmed every few years to make sure they remain healthy and vibrant. Talk to a local landscaper to find out what type of plants will provide the best results and allow you to have the type of area you want with minimal maintenance.
Make Use of Artificial Turf
When it comes to sustainability, artificial turf is, hands down, the safest bet. It can be used as an outline, cut into shapes and made into pavers or used as a base or surround for a pool, gazebo or any other type of area. While many people have started to rely on it for recreational areas, it can also work well in landscaped areas, providing an ever-green foundation that requires no maintenance. Artificial turf comes in many different shades, textures and piles. It's only requirement is minimal rinsing to knock down the dust. When used in landscaped areas, it can be cut to almost any shape or size and can be moved or replaced at any time.
Sustainable landscaping will save you time and money for as long as you have it in place. There are many plants and materials on the market that can be used to create this type of landscaping and the best part is that most are extremely affordable. Including fountains and other elements can add a touch of variety to the area that will make it stand out without causing you to constantly have to care for it. With the right set up, everything that is included can play a role in making the section sustainable. By working with a local landscaper they can provide you with many ideas and techniques over and above the use of plants, that will help turn your landscaping area into a small oasis that is completely self-sustaining and beautiful as well.
