Chapter 5: Landscaping

What do landscaping and air conditioning have in common?

Your health and wellness!  

When we consider how to keep our homes cool in the summer, most of us think about how to change the indoor temperature. Air conditioning! 

One of the best ways to keep your house cooler starts outside. Strategically placed trees and shrubs can enhance the beauty of your home – while making your home more comfortable and saving money. 

Yes, the landscape around your house has an effect on your energy and water bills. 

Yes, the landscape around your home affects your comfort, and your health and wellness.  

As we talk with homeowners, we find that health and wellness, safety, and comfort are paramount concerns. Unfortunately, many homes fall short in providing these essential elements. Learn more about what you can do with your landscaping  to help your home contribute to your sense of peace and well-being. From Chapter 5 of my book, Living Green Effortlessly.

Small Steps Towards a Greener Home

The beauty lies in the little things we can do within our homes, which cumulatively lead to a greener and more sustainable living environment. Our aspiration is for you to revel in every moment spent in your home, making it a sanctuary of joy and sustainability.

Sustainable Landscaping Strategies

The connection between your home and its surrounding landscape can be a pivotal factor in energy conservation. Thoughtful landscaping can significantly contribute to making your home more energy-efficient. Here are some strategies:

• Plants: Strategically planting vegetation around your home can aid in insulation, particularly around the foundation, effectively regulating temperature and conserving energy.
• Trees and Shrubs: Planting taller trees as windbreaks or using trees and shrubs for shade not only enhances your landscape but also reduces your home’s internal temperature, leading to energy savings.
• Hardscape: The choice of hardscape materials matters. Dark concrete can absorb heat, making it ideal for colder climates, while lighter surfaces reflect heat, keeping the area cool.
• Permeable Materials: Opting for permeable materials like stone or gravel allows rainwater to seep into the ground, replenishing the water table.

Water Management for Sustainability

Efficient water management is crucial for sustainable landscaping:

• Rain Barrels and Rain Gardens: These serve as effective means to retain rainwater on your property, reducing runoff and preserving the natural water cycle.
• Sprinkler Systems: Implementing water-efficient sprinkler systems through proper settings, suitable sprinkler heads, and rain sensors can significantly reduce water wastage.
• Smart Irrigation Systems: Upgrading your irrigation system to be smart enables precise control, optimizing water usage and minimizing waste.
• WaterSense Certification: Look for WaterSense-certified fixtures and installations to ensure efficient water use in your landscaping.
• Drip Systems and Soaker Hoses: If irrigation is unnecessary, opt for drip systems or soaker hoses to provide water directly to plants’ roots, reducing wastage.

Embrace eco-friendly practices to nurture a vibrant lawn and garden:

Native Plants: Choose native plants that thrive in your region, requiring minimal water and maintenance while attracting wildlife and helping control invasive species.

Incorporating these strategies into your landscaping endeavors will not only enhance the aesthetics of your home but also contribute to your well-being and the well-being of the environment. Striving for sustainability in every aspect of your living space is a journey worth embarking upon, one that transforms not just your home but the world around it.