Man planting in a garden

Natual landscaping explained

Many people think that natural landscaping is simply leaving your yard to grow wild. However, natural landscaping is a bit more complicated than that.

Natural landscaping is the process of using native plants and materials to create a landscape that is both beautiful and sustainable. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re thinking about embarking on a natural landscaping project.

The landscape of a natural garden.
Natural garden

Pick the right plants

Not all plants are created equal when it comes to natural landscaping. You’ll want to choose plants that are native to your area and that will be able to thrive in your local climate.

Choosing native plants is important because they will be better adapted to your local conditions and will require less water and maintenance than non-native plants.

Create a plan

Once you’ve decided on the right plants for your natural landscape, it’s time to start planning out where they will go. Begin by sketching out a rough idea of what you want your landscape to look like. Then, use this sketch as a guide as you begin planting.

Remember, there is no rush. Take your time and enjoy the process of creating your natural landscape.

Mulch

Using mulch in your natural landscape has many benefits. Mulch helps retain moisture in the soil, which is especially important in hot, dry climates. Mulch also helps control weeds and keeps soil temperatures consistent, both of which are important for healthy plant growth.

Gloved hands holding a plastic bag of mulch made from wood chips.
Mulch of wood chips

When selecting mulch for your natural landscape, choose from materials such as wood chips, bark, or straw. Avoid using synthetic materials such as plastic or rubber as these can release chemicals into the soil that can harm plants.

Conclusion

Natural landscaping is a great way to create a beautiful and sustainable landscape. By choosing native plants and using mulch, you can create a low-maintenance landscape that will require less water and less work than a traditional landscape.