Sustainable Landscaping Trends: Trees & Green Practices
By Taylor's Way | Dec 10, 2018 | Blog
Sustainability has become more than a buzz word — it's a value and principle people are embracing in their building and maintenance projects. From lawn size reductions to intelligent irrigation systems, sustainable landscaping is reshaping how we think about our outdoor spaces. Today, our tree service Utica, IL specialists discuss the major trends in sustainable landscaping revolving around tree plantation and tree maintenance.
1. The Plantation of Native Trees
One of the biggest trends in sustainable landscaping this year is choosing native plants and trees for your landscape that are not only beautiful, but also very practical. By planting resilient native shade-producing trees on the west, east, and northwestern sides of your home you might lower your summer cooling costs by 35% as the trees provide a natural barrier between sunrays and your house.
Picking native grasses, vegetation and trees for your landscape is not actually a new idea, but since sustainable landscaping is now a growing trend, tree service Utica, IL experts say we will witness an increased concern in cultivating fast-growing, shade-producing and low-maintenance trees that offer both beauty and comfort.
Northern Red Oak
Resilient, shade-producing, and stunning through every season with rich leaf color changes.
Sugar Maple
A classic choice for shade and privacy, known for spectacular fall foliage and local resilience.
Pagoda Dogwood
A graceful native tree offering layered branching, spring blooms, and multi-season visual interest.
Flowering Dogwood & Silver Maple
Both fare well in polluted areas, provide shade and privacy screening, and add high property value.
All of these trees share key traits: resilience to local climatic conditions, use for shade and privacy screening, and the ability to thrive in polluted areas. Each puts on a spectacular visual show from spring to winter with changing flowers, leaves, and bark colors throughout the year.
2. Introducing Rain Water Features
Beauty & Relaxation
The look and sound of water are undoubtedly relaxing and comforting. One of the biggest landscaping trends this year is the introduction of water features such as freestanding fountains, rock waterfalls, and ponds.
Storm Water Management
Rain water can be incorporated into the general landscape design as a rain water feature. Well-designed ponds and waterfalls become auxiliary sources of water to irrigate trees and vegetation — combining looks with true functionality.
Sustainability-Centric Purpose
Combining rain water harvesting with landscape design ensures the health and thriving of your trees, turf, and flowers while conserving precious water resources for the long term.
3. Switching to Organic Fertilization
This is not a new trend either, but one that becomes more and more popular, especially if you cultivate fruit trees. Making mulch and compost in your back yard is now a routine, not a whim anymore, say our tree service Utica, IL specialists.
Compost for Fertilization
Making your own compost provides rich, natural nutrients for fruit trees and vegetable gardens without harsh synthetic chemicals.
Mulch for Protection
Organic mulch protects and nourishes trees and shrubs, retaining moisture and regulating soil temperature through changing seasons.
Fruit Trees & Berry Shrubs
For those growing veggie gardens and fruit trees, organic fertilization and mulching are the go-to methods to ensure full health and thriving of edible plants.
Ready to Embrace Sustainable Landscaping?
Our tree service specialists in Utica, IL are here to help you plant native trees, design rain water features, and implement organic maintenance practices for a greener, healthier property.
