Post on 19-Aug-2020
SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.DAVEY.COM/CARETAKER
PROPER PLANT SELECTIONUsing native plants and others ideal for
your landscape will save money and help the environment. They require less
supplemental irrigation, pesticide treatment and fertilizer than non-native plants.
IRRIGATION SYSTEMAuditing your irrigation system is the
first step in ensuring you get the best return on the investment. An effective irrigation
system can reduce water use, and drip irrigation cuts down on the amount of water
lost to runoff and evaporation.
PERENNIAL COLOR DISPLAYSPerennials can offer the same visual impact as annuals with less cost and maintenance. The investment in perennials often pays off in a
few seasons, and the flowers return every year. Perennials can also be divided to beautify
other areas of your property.
PROPER MULCHINGUsing effective amounts of mulch can help retain soil moisture and reduce irrigation
amounts. Gravel as mulch lowers soil temperature, inhibits weeds and requires less
frequent replenishment.
GREEN MAINTENANCETry reverting to “old-school” methods of maintenance. Pruning shrubs by hand is
better for air quality, the plants, and allows the pruner to create a more natural shape. Also recycling grass clippings, leaves, shearings, etc. will trim the expense for transporting
materials to an off-site location.
WATER CONSERVATIONLow-flow water devices have been shown to
save water and money. Rain gardens can slow the runoff of rainwater, help eliminate overload
on stormwater systems and reduce erosion.
Sustainable properties yield higher occupancy, increased profits, a better public image and a healthier, more prosperous landscape.
ADDITIONAL STEPS TO “GREEN” YOUR PROPERTY:
energy-efficient landscaping:According to the EPA, a well-planned landscape can reduce cooling costs by up to 50% and heating expenses by up to 4%. Use of evergreen trees on the western and northwestern exposures of your property will cut down on exposure to winter’s penetrating winds. Deciduous trees on southern and eastern exposures buffer summer’s intense sunlight but allow winter rays to warm your home.
soil testing: Have soil pH tested so the most appropriate plants and turf are selected for your landscape. Soil rich in organic matter retains more moisture and nutrients and reduces compaction. Encourage soil organic matter buildup by using organic mulches, recycled leaves and clippings.
turf space:Consider converting high-maintenance turf areas that are nonessential to curb appeal to low-maintenance landscapes. Planting perennials, installing mulch or establishing no-mow regions will save money and resources, including water and fertilizers.
contact your local davey representative:Learn more about ways to make your property more environmentally friendly.
CONTACT YOUR DAVEY PROFESSIONAL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION. email: info@davey.com phone: 800.445.TREE web: www.davey.com/sustainable