Microclimates & Plant/Material Selection

Another import piece of accomplishing a low impact or eco-friendly landscape is the ability to blend with the existing eco system and climate by taking the natural patterns of precipitation, drainage, sun, and wind into account as well as seasonal change, indigenous plants, and wildlife. It's important to recognize that there can be many different microclimates on any one property. The goal is to be respectful of, and integrate with, what naturally exists by choosing plants and materials that naturally thrive within the given environment.

When our designers create a landscape plan they start by identifying and locating existing microclimates on a site. Each site has its own microclimates. These result from the site conditions including; site orientation, house location, house size, topography, drainage patterns, amount and location of existing plant materials. For example -- south side = most sun exposure; east side = most moderate of all zones; north side = coldest, shadiest, dampest; west side = morning shade afternoon sun. Again, material selection must be carefully and thoughtfully chosen based on the location and microclimate they will be used in.

Once we have the microclimates established, we can better choose site material. Plants fulfill a number of valuable functions in a landscape outside of being aesthetically pleasing. Using native plant material is best for establishing a low impact landscape and is recommended for a many reasons. First off, they grow better because they have naturally acclimated to the existing climate and conditions of the region, therefore normally do not need special care. They require less time and energy to maintain their health and vigor in comparison to exotics. The final plus to using native plants is that they can visually tie into the existing character of a region.

Structural materials such as walls, pavers, fences, and pergolas can also be selected with consideration given to their environment. These materials could be indigenous to the region or possibly composed of recycled materials. Materials native to a region are environmentally responsive for a number of reasons. They maintain the character and material style that is prevalent in an area. And using locally mined rocks and boulders require minimal transportation costs. Using native materials also supports the local economy of a region. And using reclaimed brick and stone from old city streets or demolished buildings can create a unique look for a backyard patio.

Now let's talk about your lawn. Sod has a profound influence on a site's compatibility with natural processes. Despite its prevalence, there are numerous reasons to question the extensive use of lawn. It is not indigenous to this area and does not grow well without special care. The height of a lawn is also unnatural; most grass grows 6"-8" if let alone. Lawn must of course be periodically mowed at the expense of time and energy to prevent the grass from reaching its natural height. As a synthetic environment, lawn must be supported by other means to maintain its health and vigor such as watering, fertilization, pest control and weeding to preserve its expected appearance.

Fertilizers applied to lawns to make them grow vigorously are also potentially detrimental to the environment at large. They can be carried away during a rainstorm and end up in nearby streams and rivers, where the added nutrients cause algae and other aquatic plants to dramatically grow.

Grass space on a residential site is a given. It's just important to be aware of how it can best be managed. Pesticides should be used sparingly, if at all. Instead, use organic fertilizers, which are derived from manure or sewage treatment processes. These are preferred because of their low phosphate and nitrogen levels.

Using organic methods is also healthier for children, pets and the environment in general including the soil. Watering should be done only when necessary and you should try to water in the early morning or evening when evaporation from the sun is minimal. Lawn space should be considered carefully due its ecological shortcomings. You can reduce the impact a lawn has on the rest of the environment by reducing your lawn area and maintaining your existing lawn in a responsible manner.

Lawn areas are desirable and functional, especially when they are used for recreational purposes, like playing catch or as an outdoor play space. Our design team at Pine to Prairie will discuss and study your needs for recreational grass space and help you determine how a lawn area can best be effective for you and your family.

It's evident that there are many advantages to an environmentally responsive design. It can conserve energy and save money on heating and cooling. Eco-friendly landscaping is less expensive to maintain, and can require less time to keep up.

It is important for our designers at Pine to Prairie to be good stewards of the land and to help our clients create an intelligent design, based on concepts that are one with the environment, not at odds with it. Contact us today for help transforming your yard into an eco-friendly landscape.