How to Create a Sustainable Landscape Design

Sustainable landscape design creates beautiful outdoor living space without detracting from the natural surroundings. This style of landscaping has evolved in recent years to promote a more environmentally-friendly method of enjoying our outdoor property. Sustainable landscaping techniques can be integrated into nearly any garden style, including Mediterranean, English garden, and even desert designs. The primary principles of a sustainable design are:

• Little to no use of treated materials, insecticides, and chemical-based products.


• Minimize reliance on limited natural resources - paving materials, water, fossil fuels, etc.


• Reduce waste and reuse resources.


• Create natural energy options whenever possible.


• Replenish wildlife by providing natural habitats and nesting areas.

• Preserve existing plant life whenever possible. Relocate vegetation if necessary.


• Select plants that thrive in your area and buy them locally if possible.


• Know the water needs of each plant and group those with similar needs together when planting.


• Use shade trees and hedges to increase energy efficiency by positioning them to block mid-day sun or to shield your home from winds.

• Green roofs are common features in sustainable landscape designs. Rather than redirect rain water away from building tops, this garden style retains water and uses it to grow vegetables, potted plants, and colorful flowers. Green roofs make use of a typically ignored surface while reducing pollution.


• Bioswales are storm water drainage systems that double as natural garden areas. Ornamental grasses and native wildflowers provide refuge to wildlife and add maintenance-free vegetation to your outdoor space.


• Rain gardens are another sustainable option for drainage. A depression is created to collect, store, and filter rainwater runoff. A grassy area typically serves as the first filter, followed by a layer of mulch that allows nutrients to reach plants and trees. The depression stores a small amount of water and nourishes ground covers, shrubs, and trees within the planting area.


• Xeriscaping is a specific landscape style, utilizing native plants and natural planting areas to minimize dependency on natural resources. Xeriscapes require about 60% less water than traditional landscape designs.

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Sustainable landscape design creates beautiful outdoor living space without detracting from the natural surroundings. This style of landscaping has evolved in recent years to promote a more environmentally-friendly method of enjoying our outdoor property. Sustainable landscaping techniques can be integrated into nearly any garden style, including Mediterranean, English garden, and even desert designs.

Allen Quay is the author of this article on Front Yard Landscape Design. You can find more valuable landscape design tips and information on Allen's website, the Landscape Design Advisor.

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