It’s Easy Being Green
What Is Green Landscaping?
It seems like it should be self-explanatory, but just because plants are green does not a Green Landscape make. Green Landscaping is defined as landscaping that is water-efficient, reduces pollution, provides habitat for wildlife, and creates healthy outdoor spaces.
Does your community have plants that require what seems like an ocean full of water to look vibrant? Are there plants that always come down with an insect or disease issue? Or even worse – do you have drainage and surface water issues that cause erosion right into the storm drains? If you answered “yes” to any or all of these questions – you’re landscape needs a green makeover!
What Can Commercial Properties Do to Be More Green?
- Talk to your contractor about using plants that promote sustainability in the landscape. Using plants that are drought tolerant can reduce overall water usage and reduce excess runoff. Planting trees can provide shade and increase energy efficiency.
- Limit the use of chemicals on the property. Fertilizers used at improper rates or at the wrong time of the year are often harmful to the environment, especially the watersheds.
- Use biological treatments to control insect pests. Many pest outbreaks can be prevented with an application of Dormant Oil in early spring. However, if insect populations do emerge during the season, identify and treat ONLY the insect that is causing damage.
- Work with contractors that recycle. Did you know that Complete Landscaping Service has a 5-acre parcel dedicated to recycling yard waste and debris? Whether it is leaves, tree branches, or excess mulch removed in the spring, they all come back to our headquarters to be given a second chance at life. No landfills for these goldmines of nutrition.
- Incorporate bio ponds and rain gardens to capture stormwater runoff and filter it before it makes it to the storm drain. These attractive plantings help to keep harmful chemicals out of the watersheds.
- Ask about pollinator-friendly plants. Pollinator gardens give beneficial insects and wildlife a safe environment to live in while providing pollen and nutrients to these vital members of the ecosystem.
- Stop trying to grow grass where grass doesn’t want to grow. Use alternatives to traditional lawns and incorporate stone, permeable pavers, or artificial turf in these areas to reduce excess watering and areas that require equipment to mow.
Be Intentionally Green
Being green really isn’t as hard or expensive as you may think. If you look around your office or property, you can probably point out several things that are already green. LED lights, energy-efficient appliances, earth-friendly chemicals – they’ve been around for years and are common in the commercial property world. But it’s time to look outside the building and green up that landscape!
If you’re ready to be intentionally green and want to see how Complete Landscaping can provide your property with Green Peace of Mind, contact us today for a consultation.
