1. Use Native Plants Instead of Traditional Grasses

The grass you typically see in American yards isn't native to most areas of North America. Likewise, the maintenance of the typical grass lawn is much more resource-intensive than lawns populated with native plants, particularly in the amount of water required to keep the grass healthy. For a greener alternative, you can research what ground cover is native to your area and install it. There are many native species of grasses and you can also introduce wildflowers, mosses and other types of ground cover. This will make your lawn part of a healthy ecosystem and also look beautiful.

2. Keep Your Location in Mind

You want to work with your local climate and ecosystem, not against it. This way, you can prepare and use greener options for dealing with extreme temperatures, variable weather and delicate ecosystems. You'll also want to think about how architectural installations will affect the environment and be affected by the climate. For example, before looking at loans for pools, you'll want to determine what effect installing a pool in your yard will have. If an inground pool will negatively impact the local ecosystem or cause excessive erosion, talk to a professional about other options, such as an above-ground pool. If the climate is too cold for most of the year, it may be better to install a hot tub, which can be situated indoors or on a deck or patio.

3. Use Xeriscaping To Conserve Water

Xeriscaping is an extension of populating your lawn with native plants. Xeriscape refers to the use of drier plants to better conserve water. This type of landscaping is best suited to already dry climates, such as the American southwest. If you want to try xeriscaping, you have far more options than you might think. You may choose a desert aesthetic, with cacti, rocks and sand. Alternatively, you can plant a garden with hardy herbs and perennials or fill your lawn with shrubs and low-water grasses, such as buffalo grass.

4. Choose Reusable and Recyclable Materials

Organic matter, including plant matter, dies eventually. This can sometimes result in more waste from your landscaping than you may expect. To combat this, look for materials that can be reused or recycled or that will last a long time. Perennial flowers, such as daffodils, will grow back year after year, reducing the need to purchase new flowers each season. Other plant matter can be composted. You can also use durable materials, such as brick and stone, for architectural purposes. They're popular choices for paths and lining flower beds because they're wear-resistant and can be rearranged relatively easily.

5. Install Green Roofs And Walls

A green roof is a sustainable method of constructing roofs, where the roof is covered in greenery and vegetation. This type of roof isn't permitted everywhere, so check before you install it. However, it's a good option for providing more room for vegetation and reducing energy consumption. Green walls are similar. Think of them as vertical gardens. You can hang plants in containers or weave stems and vines through trellises. A green wall, or living wall, can give your garden more space and afford you more privacy.

Going green doesn't mean your landscaping has to become more utilitarian. In fact, green landscaping that utilizes native plants, incorporates natural fertilizer and pesticide options and works with the environment rather than overhauling it can result in a gorgeous property.

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