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Site Runoff Prevention: Rainwater collection systems, Rain gardens, Xeriscape pronounced "Zera-scape ( landscaping and gardening in ways that reduce or eliminate the need for supplemental irrigation), are just a few ways to become water smart.
Use plantings to reduce heating/cooling needs. Deciduous trees planted appropriately along the south sides of buildings can reduce air conditioning costs by up to 20%; in winter they allow the sun's rays to warm buildings. Coniferous trees planted to block prevailing NW winter winds can reduce heating costs. Trees planted to shade paved areas reduce the summer heat. Dense trees can block up to 95% of sunlight and 75% of its heat. Consider the size and shape of the shadow a plant will cast. At midday a vine-covered wall is cooler than a bare wall. If you don't have mature trees, consider planting vines on a trellis.
Water: Water also tempers heat. A pond can help cool the surrounding areas. Plants can also alter micro-climates by intercepting precipitation. Only 60% of rain falling on a pine forest reaches the ground. Because trees intercept and slow down water movement they also help to control runoff and erosion. Plant water-thrifty plants, often natives that are suited to the climate.
Soil: Berms, Manmade mounds of earth properly planted, can block sun, obstruct winds, insulate, and control noise. Sandy soil drains too quickly and doesn't provide much in the way of nutrients. Water tends to run off of clay soil. The best soil is a mix of clay, sand & silt (loam).
Composting: Adding compost to your soil on a regular basis will improve soil structure, texture and aeration, help loosen compacted soils, promotes soil fertility and stimulates root growth. It will also create a favorable environment for beneficial microorganisms and can cut down the amount of fertilizer used.
Mulching: Applying a 2-3 inch thick layer of mulch over plants root systems will reduce moisture loss, moderate soil temperatures, reduce weed growth and add to the beauty of your landscape.
Perennial Gardens, These style gardens are popular for their stunning focal points to landscaping. Annuals will produce intense colors, but need to be replanted each year, while perennials are attractive for their hardiness in the cold and their propensity to bloom each spring
Naturalizing, This process is great for maximizing growing potential with minimal work. Eventually, by integrating informal "drifts" among other plants in wooded areas and lawns, the bulbs will multiply and spread into a spectacular display of flowers.
Arbors, Trellises, Pergolas, Designed and built using a variety of preferred materials, these structures add an inspiring touch to your landscaping design. They are great for providing filtered shade over decks and for growing vines and other colorful flowers.
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