5 Tips for Eco-Friendly Landscaping in Calgary
Transforming your yard into an eco-friendly space benefits the environment as well as your property’s aesthetic appeal—and, in some cases, its value too!
As seasoned landscaping professionals in Calgary, we understand how challenging it can be to take care of your yard in an eco-friendly manner.
Below, we share a few practical insights and proven strategies that will help make your landscaping and gardening in Calgary more eco-friendly.
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#1 - Choose Native Plants
- Native plants are adapted to Calgary's climate, requiring less water and maintenance.
- They support local wildlife, including pollinators like bees and butterflies.
- Examples include prairie coneflower, wild bergamot, and blue flax.
Calgary homeowners can benefit immensely from choosing native plants well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. By selecting species like prairie coneflower and wild bergamot, you can create a beautiful, vibrant, low-maintenance, and eco-friendly garden that requires less water to survive.
In addition to their practicality, native plants support local wildlife by providing food and habitat for pollinators, birds, and other beneficial insects. By incorporating these species into your landscaping, you help maintain biodiversity and create a sustainable environment that enhances the beauty of your outdoor space.
#2 – Implement Water-Wise Practices
- Use drip irrigation systems to minimize water waste.
- Collect rainwater in barrels for watering gardens and lawns.
- Opt for drought-tolerant plants to reduce the need for frequent watering.
Implementing water-wise practices is essential for eco-friendly landscaping and gardening in Calgary, especially given our city’s fluctuating rainfall levels. Using drip irrigation systems and collecting rainwater in barrels can significantly reduce water waste while ensuring your plants receive the moisture they need.
Additionally, using drought-resistant plants in your landscaping can further decrease your garden's water requirements. By prioritizing these water-conserving strategies, you promote a sustainable landscape and contribute to the conservation of the most precious resource of them all.
#3 – Use Organic and Sustainable Materials
- Use compost instead of chemical fertilizers to enrich the soil.
- Consider organic pest control methods like neem oil and insecticidal soap.
- Mulch your garden beds to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Using organic and sustainable materials is integral to maintaining a healthy garden environment in Calgary. By opting for compost instead of chemical fertilizers, for example, you can enrich your soil naturally while promoting the health of beneficial microorganisms that support plant growth.
Consider organic pest control methods like neem oil and insecticidal soap to manage pests without harming beneficial insects. Another great option is to incorporate mulch in your garden beds, which helps to retain moisture while suppressing weeds and nurturing a thriving eco-friendly landscape.
#4 - Landscape Design with Energy Efficiency in Mind
- Plant trees strategically to provide shade and reduce cooling costs in summer.
- Use ground cover to reduce heat absorption and lower building cooling needs.
- Consider green roofs or walls to improve insulation and biodiversity.
Utilizing a landscape design with energy efficiency in mind can greatly enhance the sustainability of your home in Calgary. For example, strategically planting trees to provide shade can help reduce cooling costs during the summer months while providing an extra layer of insulation in the winter. This is a great idea if you want to save on energy costs!
Consider integrating green roofs or walls into your landscape’s design to improve insulation for your home while boosting biodiversity. These approaches create a more energy-efficient environment and can add significant aesthetic value to your home.
#5 - Create a Wildlife-Friendly Habitat
- Install birdhouses, bat boxes, and bee hotels to support local fauna.
- Designate areas of your garden as natural habitats with logs and rocks.
- Avoid pesticides and herbicides to protect beneficial insects and animals.
Creating a wildlife-friendly landscape in your yard enhances local biodiversity and supports our urban ecosystem. Installing features like birdhouses, bat boxes, and bee hotels provides essential shelter for local animals while incorporating natural elements like logs and rocks to create microhabitats for various insects.
By avoiding pesticides and herbicides in your garden maintenance routine, you protect beneficial insects and animals that call your garden home. This natural approach not only supports wildlife but also contributes to a healthier, sustainable yard all around.
Eco-Friendly Landscaping: Frequently Asked Questions
How can I reduce water usage in my garden?
Use drought-tolerant plants, install drip irrigation systems, and collect rainwater in barrels to conserve water while keeping your garden lush.
What are some natural ways to control pests in my garden?
Utilize organic methods like neem oil, insecticidal soap, and companion planting to deter pests without harming beneficial insects or the environment.
Why should I choose native plants for my garden?
Native plants are adapted to local conditions, requiring less water and maintenance while supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity.
Questions about Eco-Friendly Landscaping in Calgary?
If you have any questions about eco-friendly landscaping, please don’t hesitate to call our team of professional landscapers anytime!
At Calgary Dreamscapes, we have over a decade of experience in eco-friendly landscaping and have the knowledge and expertise to make your next project a huge success! Call us anytime at 403-471-7588 or email us directly at richie@calgarydreamscapes.ca and we will be happy to assist you!