What is Green Landscaping ?

Green landscaping is the process of creating beautiful scenery through the planting of native plants, the implementation of environmentally friendly designs and the limitation or complete removal of the use of pesticides and herbicides. Green landscaping helps to reduce the negative impacts that development may otherwise have on land, water, air and energy use. In short, the use and implementation of green landscaping can help preserve natural resources and prevent waste and pollution.
   
Green landscaping is also far more economical than traditional landscaping. Recently, green and environmental living has grown in popularity and in turn, green awareness is quickly growing as well. Environmental awareness came heavily into effect in the late ‘90s, which led to an explosion of green projects.
   
Green landscaping can create a green, beautiful and highly efficient garden. A green landscape focuses on native plants and species diversity. Plants should be plotted in an efficient and logical way. There are many things that need to be taken into consideration with green landscaping. You must take into consideration the particulars of the region in which you live, that way you can determine specific needs of your terrain and the ways in which you can conserve on certain resources while still meeting these needs. One of the things you might want to consider is a homemade compost pile made from yard waste and household biodegradable waste. This will create natural fertilizer to use in lieu of chemical fertilizer. Natural pest-reducing measures can be taken instead of pesticides. Options such as bug-eating birds and bats are great, eco-friendly alternatives!
   
Green landscaping also contains the ability to reduce heating and cooling bills. This is done through the strategic placement of native plants. They can help a building be much more heat efficient which can lead to the reduction of reliance on air conditioning and heating systems. Green buildings can be combined with green landscaping which can help to manage energy bills in a highly significant way. Many trees can also work as a wind barrier, protecting buildings from chilling winds and other weathers to help reduce energy bills. You may also want to consider a living roof (created from native grasses) or try covering the sides of your home with native vines which will help maintain shade in the summer and retain heat in the winter. 

Green landscaping is a wonderful alternative to traditional landscaping and can be incredibly beneficial to the environment and to your wallet. If you are ready to begin your green landscaping project, check out some of the eco-friendly gardening and landscaping tools and supplies offered right here on EnviroCitizen.org !