Sustainability has proven to be the new buzzword in the green industry over the last few years, NALP says that for 2018 it’s proving to be more than just a trend. We all do our part to protect the environment, whether it be recycling or purchasing energy efficient appliances. We need plants to provide oxygen and they are a key part to a healthy eco system and to human health as well. Eco landscaping is a new trend in innovative, sustainable and nature friendly landscaping design.
The results are outdoor spaces that are functional, maintainable, ecologically responsible, more cost effective and beautiful. It’s a lifestyle choice that is important for today’s and future generations. Plants prevent erosion, reduce dust, and filter water as it moves through the soil. They shade and cool our neighborhoods as well…. So the more trees the cooler our yards and neighborhoods will be! Bring on the trees!
i-Tree Eco version 6 is a flexible software application designed to use data collected in the field from single trees, complete inventories, or randomly located plots throughout a study area along with local hourly air pollution and meteorological data to quantify forest structure, environmental effects, and value to communities. Click on the link to learn more about tree’s in your area and the work they are doing to help eliminate pollution. https://www.itreetools.org/eco/index.php
For a lot of people traditional landscaping is a lot of up keep and out weighs the natural benefits. With planting a more sustainable garden you can reduce water usage, nurture indigenous wildlife, reduce chemical usage, and reduce plants that are chronic problems.
These landscapes are build to last, so they can be enjoyed through all the seasons, year after year. With unpredictable weather patterns there is a need for plants that can withstand extreme conditions. It’s important to use native plants. You can search for plants that are native to your area. If your in Kentucky here is a great link for finding plants that will work well in your area. http://www.knps.org/
The main process of creating a eco friendly landscape is the use of natural products, adding additional trees, reducing chemicals, using techniques to harvest rainwater, using structures that work with the land instead of against it. Water reservoirs are a great self contained way to achieve water balance. The greatest thing about eco friendly plants is you don’t need a yard to grow a garden. You can use your patio or deck for planting pots. They make great privacy screens!
Composting is a great way to reduce waste, food scraps and yard waste currently make up 20 to 30 percent of 
what we throw away, and should be composted instead. Making compost keeps these materials out of landfills where they take up space and release methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Compost is organic material that can be added to soil to help plants grow. Here is a great link we found to start your own composting area. https://www.epa.gov/recycle/composting-home
The important thing is to remember plants are essential to the earth, so get out there and start planting.
