Why Low-Water Landscaping Is Beneficial

Farmers and gardeners have understood this for a long time, but Commercial Strata Maintenance maple ridge trends are starting to reflect the idea that it is simpler, more affordable, and more environmentally responsible to design outdoor spaces that support rather than harm the environment. Communities in Maple Ridge frequently have to deal with erratic rainfall totals as a result. Residents can use our climate to their advantage by designing attractive, distinctive landscapes with water-wise landscaping. 

What is Water Conservation Landscaping? 

Depending on your location of the country, water-efficient landscaping will appear different. Landscape plants that require less water and can withstand a variety of climatic conditions are chosen. Some plants that do well in arid climate may be able to endure the frequently dry circumstances, but they would not survive our bitterly cold winters. Installing and caring for plants that can naturally grow in your area's environment is the foundation of water-efficient landscaping. 

In Maple Ridge, we can see heavy spring rains followed by extended stretches of dryness. Therefore, effective landscape designers aim to employ locally adapted and native plants that can withstand the extremes of moisture and temperature that plants may encounter here during their existence. 

Advantages of Water-Savvy Landscaping 

Natural resources are scarce and priceless. We must therefore exercise caution when using necessities like water. We use a significant amount of our water supply for landscaping, which is neither sustainable nor required and can be expensive and environmentally harmful. Homeowners can enjoy a beautiful yard, reduce their water usage costs, and contribute to the preservation of limited natural resources by planting water-wise landscaping. 

How to Set Up Water-Sensitive Landscaping 

It's crucial to give water-wise landscaping the proper planning, planting, and upkeep if you want to install it. To create a stunning, low-water landscape, follow these instructions. 

Planning a landscape 

Planning is key when doing any landscaping, but it's crucial in dry climates in particular. Make a note of your yard's sunny and shaded regions. Take note of any moisture that may have resulted from air conditioners or other appliances. Over-watering can be a problem for plants that can withstand drought. 

Remember the hues, proportions, shapes, and heights you desire for your plants. Determine which hardiness zone you are in and look up the plants you are thinking about using for cold tolerance. Consider leaving opportunity for expansion when you plan your landscaping. Check your homeowner's association's list of permitted plants during the planning phase if you are a member. 

Get Your Soil Ready 

Make sure the soil is well-prepared to give your water-wise landscape the best chance of success. Over time, the clay soil in our area hardens and becomes tightly packed. In order for a plant's roots to receive oxygen and for drainage to be made possible, the soil must be broken up. Pitchfork the soil, add compost or soil conditioner, and then sprinkle over decomposed shale (or something similar) to help with drainage. 

Planting 

Observe the planting instructions listed on each plant's tag. For instance, it's a good idea to dig your planting hole two to three feet wider than the root ball when planting shrubs to give the roots plenty of room. Maintaining the same soil level as the plant had in the container, carefully backfill the hole with the removed soil and pat it around the plant. 

Mulch the area where you live to a depth of 1-2." This keeps the soil cold and deters weed growth. For the first week or two, water your new landscape plants often until the roots take hold. Following this initial period of adjustment, you can progressively cut back on your watering schedule. 

Keep Your Plants Healthy 

To protect the roots of your new landscape from temperature fluctuations and to control weed growth, keep it thoroughly mulched throughout the year. During their first year, new plants won't necessarily be totally resistant of dryness. Wilting is an indication that your plants need more water than they are receiving, so don't be afraid to use the hose to give them what they need. The first year after planting, they'll probably require more water than they will the following years.