SUMMER SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPING TRENDS

As spring is in full swing and as summer approaches it is the perfect time to talk about sustainable landscaping and what your plans may be for your yard this season. Whether you will be revamping, or just doing maintenance, let’s focus on eco-friendly, climate smart choices, and water conserving practices.

The goal is to reduce the use of natural resources. We want native-growth, drought-tolerant, low-water plants. This is actually called Xeriscaping. Look for perennials, wildflowers, grasses, tree, and shrubs indigenous to our area. You may also want to incorporate edibles like rhubarb, strawberries, blueberries, rosemary, thyme, kale, and even asparagus (find what works best for you and what you like to eat). These will not only be resilient, but they will reduce water use and ongoing maintenance, thus making it easier for you to take care of.  In addition, creating a space for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds helps the ecosystem thrive.

The Climate Action Handbook discusses … “selecting plants adapted to new climate conditions” by utilizing the USDA’s plant hardiness zones, “which are based on the average annual minimum winter temperature and are often used to determine which plants are most likely to thrive in a given region”.

For patios, walkways, and driveways, consider using permeable, reclaimed, or recycled materials. Options like salvaged wood, recycled bricks, reclaimed materials like natural stone, gravel, and permeable pavers not only reduce environmental impact but also bring unique character to your landscape. Consider incorporating rainwater catchment systems in these hardscapes for irrigation. Rather than hauling away tree debris, we rented a woodchipper and then, right on-site, processed piles of branches, small logs, and leftover wood from a previously removed tree.

We’re approaching the transformation of our front yard in manageable stages. Last year, we covered the area with tarps to smother the water-thirsty grass. This year, we installed a heavy-duty weed barrier and topped it with all the wood chips we created. Next year, we plan to plant drought-tolerant and native species directly into the mulch.

The resulting ground cover now blankets the entire front yard—an eco-friendly solution that reduces waste, conserves moisture, and sets the stage for a vibrant, low-maintenance landscape. Wouldn’t it be great to have a garden we can tend to when we choose—not one that demands our time.

Check out the Bellingham Food Scapes, 5 Elements Harvest, WSU Master Gardner website and Geo Garden Club for additional tips. You may even find a Master Gardner who would be willing to come to your home to help you brainstorm. Here is a video to also help you discover Perennials For The Pacific Northwest.