Our planet provides us with natural beauty that we often take for granted, especially in the vast and lush Sussex County, NJ, region. In our day-to-day lives, we are often too busy to stop and consider our impact on the environment. In the past, lawn care was very difficult to execute in an eco-conscious manner. However, innovations in technology now allow homeowners to not only maintain their lawn beautifully, but to do so knowing that they are not harming the planet in the process. Read on to discover the advantages of eco-friendly landscaping, as well as expert tips in achieving a healthy and beautiful property.
How Does Eco-Conscious Landscaping Benefit Homeowners?
When we notice bugs eating away at our plants, or we observe a bare spot on our lawn, we immediately become concerned about the wellbeing of our landscape and begin looking into methods of treatment. Unfortunately, many fertilizers and pesticides harbor chemicals that are not only damaging to the environment, but can also cause harm to children or pets who may play amongst these strong chemicals. With this in mind, it is the responsibility of homeowners to ensure that their products and treatment methods are eco-friendly. These products are not difficult to find on the market, and as more brands rush to meet the demands of consumers who want more eco-friendly lawn care options, pricing is competitive and affordable. Doing our part ensures that we are creating a healthier earth and looking after our loved ones.
Below are some key tips in successfully cultivating an eco-conscious landscape in the Sussex County, NJ region:
Composting - A popular and ever-growing method of sustainability, composting is a simple and cost-effective way to protect the environment. Compostable materials, ranging from banana peels to trash bags, provide the earth's soils with nutrients and in turn allow for a healthier landscape without using chemicals.
Mulching - Mulching is another popular method of eco-friendly landscaping. A fresh mulch bed is appealing to the eye, but beneath the service it does so much more for our landscape and the environment. As mulch absorbs into the earth's soil, it's organic compounds breakdown. This results in the mulch bed not only absorbing and retaining maximum moisture, but also provides nutrition for organisms that live beneath the soil and help maintain the balance of the ecosystem.
Choosing Plants - An often overlooked step, it can be tempting to decorate our landscapes with a variety of plants that appeal to our eyes. However, it is best to work with plants that are native to our region. Not only do native plants require less maintenance because they are naturally occurring in the area and therefore can generally sustain themselves, they also attract a variety of wildlife, such as butterflies and birds. Fortunately, the Sussex County, NJ region is abundant with different types of plants. American dogwood and oak trees are very common, as well as shrubbery such as the pussywillow and the winterberry.
Retaining Walls- Instead of using harsh chemicals to prevent erosion, retaining walls are an eco-friendly alternative that can be a beautifying addition to your landscape. Professional landscapers are able to visualize the retaining wall, and build it according to its needs and the desired aesthetic of the homeowner. Simple accents like hanging lights and plants give retaining walls a more natural place on a landscape.
Go Electric - When operating a lawnmower that relies on gas for fuel, constant maintenance is necessary and there is no way to completely avoid fumes caused by the gas. Electric mowers lessen the need for maintenance and reduce environmental impact by preventing fumes and smoke from entering the earth's atmosphere.
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