Landscapes That Last

As more people become aware of the impact of human activities on the environment, sustainable landscaping practices are gaining popularity. Sustainable landscaping not only helps to conserve resources and reduce pollution but also creates beautiful renewable outdoor spaces that end up saving you money. In this blog post, we will explore some sustainable landscaping practices that you can adopt on your commercial property to create a landscape that lasts.

Use Sod Wisely

Sod is a popular choice for establishing a new lawn quickly. However, traditional sod production methods can be resource-intensive and can have a negative impact on the environment. One alternative method is hydroseeding, which uses less water and fertilizers than traditional sod installation methods. Hydroseeding involves mixing seed, mulch, and water in a tank, which is then sprayed over a prepared soil surface. The mulch in the mixture helps to retain moisture and protect the seeds from birds and wind, resulting in faster and more uniform germination. Another alternative is slit seeding, which uses a machine to cut slits into the soil and deposit seed at the same time. Slit seeding is especially effective for overseeding existing lawns or repairing damaged areas. Additionally, choose sod that is grown locally to reduce transportation emissions.

Improve Drainage

Proper drainage is essential for maintaining a healthy landscape. Poor drainage can lead to soil erosion, waterlogging, and plant diseases. Instead of using impermeable materials like concrete or asphalt, consider using porous materials like permeable pavers or gravel to promote drainage. Permeable pavers are made of concrete or plastic and have spaces between them that allow water to infiltrate into the soil. Gravel is an excellent option for driveways and parking lots since it allows water to pass through and infiltrate into the soil below. Additionally, installing a rain garden or bioswale can help to capture and filter stormwater runoff, reducing the load on the municipal stormwater system. Rain gardens are shallow depressions planted with native plants that capture and absorb stormwater runoff. Bioswales are vegetated channels that collect and transport stormwater runoff while filtering out pollutants.

Mulch Effectively

Mulch is an excellent way to conserve water, suppress weeds, and enrich the soil. However, using too much or the wrong type of mulch can be counterproductive. When applying mulch, make sure to leave space around the base of trees and plants to prevent moisture buildup and potential root rot. Choose organic mulches like wood chips or leaves, which decompose slowly and enrich the soil. Organic mulches also help to improve soil structure, increase water infiltration, and suppress weeds. Our team at Pezza can quickly survey your landscape and let you know where mulch would be best installed.

Plant Trees

Trees are a great addition to any landscape, providing shade, beauty, and ecosystem services. By storing carbon dioxide in their leaves, trees can also aid in reducing climate change. Choose native trees that are already adapted to your local climate and soil conditions, and plant them in appropriate locations to avoid conflicts with utilities or structures. Proper planting techniques, such as digging a wide planting hole, amending the soil with organic matter, and mulching around the base of the tree, can also help to promote tree health and longevity.

Use Native Plant Material

Native plants require less water, fertilizer, and pesticides than non-native plants since they are adapted to the local climate and soil. Additionally, native plants provide habitat and food for native wildlife, helping to support local ecosystems. When choosing native plants for your landscape, consider the specific growing conditions of your site, such as sun exposure, soil type, and moisture level.

Pezza Landscape, Inc. is a full-service landscaping company proudly serving the Chicagoland area and its surrounding suburbs. Give us a call at (630) 393-7373 or visit our website to get in touch.