Landscapers Develop Native Scapes

Most of us just starting a natural landscaping project need a landscaper's help.  They are generally familiar with the locale and know which vegetation is native.   If you are knowledgeable on this topic, you might not need this assistance.  Otherwise, a consultation with a landscaper will direct you to the right plants and techniques needed for your native plant landscape.

Native Landscaping and the Ecosystem

Natural landscaping involves more than just knowing about the flowers that grow without cultivation.  It is also important to know about native animals and their habitat. Too often, native animals die or leave an area because their environment is changed for good.  Doing something to preserve this natural habitat is good for the entire ecosystem, even if it is just your small backyard. 

Native plants can be very fun to have. They match the surrounding vegetation and generally live longer because they are accustomed to the climate, the local animals, and other environmental factors that have an impact on a plant's growth. Native flowers are part of a balanced ecosystem.  Therefore, less maintenance  is required, which will also make your landscaper's life a little bit easier!

Natural Landscaping and Animal Visitors

With natural landscaping, your backyard can easily become a great place for animals to come by and visit.  This adds a nice touch to your property. Landscapers are well aware of this.  Your landscaping company should discuss the pros and cons of these animal visits with you.  If you enjoy the peace and serenity involved with getting closer to nature, then you will certainly want to encourage animals to visit.

At the same time, encouraging animals to visit can also cause them to destroy plants that are not native to your area.  For this reason, it is often not a good idea to mix non-native plants into your landscaping scheme, unless you don't mind the furry visitors. 

Native Plants

Most landscapers do not recommend mixing native plants with non-native plants for other reasons.  This is partially because it throws off the balance of the ecosystem.  It is also because it is generally more aesthetically pleasing to keep native plants together.

While your landscapers are planting your native plants, take the time to learn more about the plants.  Ask the names of the plants and learn how to properly care for them.  Since they are native to your area, maintenance should be minimal.  Take several days to learn about the plants if necessary.  You will be glad you did when you show off your blooming garden later!

Sometimes landscapers suggest native plants that are close to extinction.   They not only make your garden unique, but they will also represent an amazing responsibility.  You will need to take your landscaper's care instructions very seriously to ensure these plants remain alive and healthy.  One of your main concerns is that such a plant may have been collected in the wild, removing it  from the possibility of reproduction with other near by  plants of its type.  Never buy or remove an endangered plant from its home environment.