There is more to what is called “eco-friendly” landscaping than what the name implies. Eco-friendly or sustainable landscaping / gardening means creating a yard that is also:

• Simpler to maintain because it requires less upkeep.
• Economical because it requires minimal use of water, pesticides, and fertilizers, none of which are free.
• Energy efficient so that home power consumption decreases and electricity bills are reduced.
• Able to take advantage of the benefits of native plants in landscaping (which have been covered in a previous blog).

The Basics of Eco-Friendly Landscaping and Benefits of Native Plants in Landscaping 

There is nothing new in sustainable gardening. You have probably been doing it for years without realizing what you are doing. Focusing on the basics of sustainability and applying these principles will give you a better, more beautiful, and comfortable garden. Once you understand the basics, the rest is easy.

• Trees do not just lend stature and grace to a garden, they act as barriers to reduce the impact of damaging weather events. But planting trees is not enough. You need to know where to have them. Planting them on the Northern and Western sides of your home keeps the home in the shade during the hottest times of the day in summer. This reduces the heat in the house and brings down your air conditioning costs. Trees that shade the outdoor air conditioning units will reduce operating costs further. If you want more sunlight on the house in winter, plant deciduous trees that lose their leaves in winter and allow more sunlight to pass through to warm the house.
• Additionally, trees, shrubs, and bushes can also help in controlling electricity consumption. Planting them along the outside walls of the house adds an extra layer of insulation that reduces the effect of hot or cold winds hitting the house and raising or lowering the interior temperatures.

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Also Read: Planting for Tomorrow: Building an Eco-Friendly and Future-Proof Garden

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• The way by which an eco-friendly garden helps to reduce electricity consumption is by adding to or controlling the natural light that enters the home. The more natural light during the day, the less the need for electric lighting. Among the ways to achieve this are:
  • Using light-colored gravel and low-growing flower beds that act as reflectors to bounce more natural light into the house.
  • Using transparent materials for the roof of structures like pergolas and patios so that more sunlight reaches dim areas.
  • Instead of using shades to reduce the glare that often enters from the East or West side of the house, place trellises with creepers on these sides to diffuse the harsh light and allow only softer diffused light to reach the house.
• While on the subject of light, using solar lights for the garden will reduce electricity consumption further. Additionally, in the event of a grid failure, the lights will keep working, so the security of the home is not impacted during those times.

The next blog will continue to list out the basic concepts of eco-friendly landscaping. In the meantime, why not contact a landscaping professional to learn in greater detail the ways to create a sustainable landscape and have expert guidance in creating the best possible sustainable garden for your home?

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is eco-friendly landscaping?

Eco-friendly landscaping focuses on creating low-maintenance, water-efficient gardens that reduce energy consumption and support sustainability.

2. How do native plants benefit landscaping?

Native plants require less water, fewer chemicals, and are better adapted to local climate conditions, making them ideal for sustainable gardens.

3. How can trees reduce energy costs?

Planting trees strategically around your home can reduce heating and cooling costs by providing shade in summer and allowing sunlight in winter.

4. How can I reduce electricity consumption with landscaping?

Eco-friendly landscaping can reduce electricity use by maximizing natural light and adding layers of insulation with trees and shrubs.

5. How do I choose the best landscaping company in San Jose?

When selecting a landscaping company in San Jose, look for one with experience in sustainable practices, positive reviews, and a portfolio showcasing their expertise in landscape design and landscape maintenance services.

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