Making Green Landscape Choices
 EnviroCitizen.org has found that the methods used in green landscaping are worlds apart from the traditional techniques of landscaping. This is due to an emphasis on the conscious selection of appropriate plants, conservation and efficient use of water. It also includes the wise use of fewer resources that blend with the natural landscape. Here are some steps to making green landscape choices:
1. Choose to grow native plants
Your green landscape choice starts with good plant choices. If you choose to grow native plants, you don't have to worry about adding food, soil amendments and extra water. These plants require very low maintenance. They can also be very colorful with showy leaves as well as flowers that can compete in terms of beauty with the imported varieties of plants available
2. Choose efficient water systems for efficient plant watering
You can surely have the right green landscape choice by using dripped water irrigation systems and by reducing heads of water sprinkles in order to deliver water directly to your plants thereby eliminating waste water.
3. Choose permeable paving
Permeable paving comes in different forms. Choose one of the many different useful and decorative materials available to keep extra water from washing away wastefully while still building solid, attractive weight-bearing surfaces.
4. Choose to make your lawns more eco-friendly
Consider lawn replacement or lawn reduction to make a green landscape choice. You can significantly reduce the size of your lawn over useful areas only. You should also decide if native gardens, artificial lawn, non-living materials, ornamental grasses or other alternative options are really a good substitute. It is also a good idea to use lawn grass that demands less water and maintenance.
5. Choose green roofs
It is a good idea to grow green roofs with grass or other plants in order to create a more natural form of insulation.
6. Choose to use shade and solar heating
Help save the environment by going with nature to regulate the cold and the heat in your green landscape. Build structures or plant trees on the west and south facing sides of the seating areas or of your home. This way, you can reduce the effects of the hottest hours of the sun. You can also allow the sun's heat to warm areas by using darker colors to absorb heat.
If you use one or all of these methods for your green landscaping plan, EnviroCitizen.org knows that you will see amazing benefits for both your home and the environment.
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