Here is a short list of ways that Nate’s Living Landscapes practices “Green Thinking” every day:
- Herbicides are used sparingly to prepare a site for planting, and only when absolutely necessary to clear out specific invasive plants or treat an area for site restoration.
- Compost and peat moss are the primary fertilizers and soil conditioners used when planting trees and shrubs. Other soil amendments include manure, vermiculite, sand, and lime when needed.
- To control weeds, permeable landscape fabric, thick applications of woodchips, and rocks are used rather than herbicides whenever possible.
- In designs and plantings, deep-rooted, native perennial plants are preferred over shallow-rooted, exotic species that will require more care and are susceptible to environmental stresses. Every tree, shrub, grass, and ground cover used is carefully matched to the site it will be planted on. Soil composition, daily sunlight levels, soil-water retention rates, topography, site elevation, and proximity to other plants are just some of the factors that go into choosing where to place a living element on the landscape. Selecting species that are a “best-fit” for their site increases their chances of thriving without the need for constant human intervention.
- Using mulch generously after planting trees and shrubs boosts their liklihood of developing into healthy, mature adults. Different kinds of mulches are chosen to suit the water and nutritional needs of selected cultivars, as well at to meet the aesthetic needs of the project. Mulches are not seen as “one size fits all”.
- Hardscape projects completed by Nate’s Living Landscapes use locally-sourced stone, such as Kasota Limestone or glacial river rock, both commonplace throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin.
- Retaining structures incorporate natural drainage techniques, such as pea gravel and limestone base material to channel water through the structure without causing damage.
