Water Saving Landscape

The economic downturn is having an effect on the way homeowners look at landscaping. According to www.afrmortgage.com, expensive water gardens and exotic plants are passe. Here are 5 current landscaping trends the site says to consider proposing to your clients.

De-Grass

Go Native

Gardeners are discovering that native plants are the way to go when it comes to saving time, money, and water. Visit some of the more established neighborhoods in the area and see which plants and shrubs have stood the test of time.

Conserve Water

Having a smaller lawn and using drought tolerant plantings are easy ways to conserve water, time and money. Many communities provide barrels for rainwater collection to interested homeowners. Another method of water conservation in landscaping is the use of bioswales, which allow the redistribution of rainwater and act as a natural irrigation system.

Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labor Decades ago gardens that provided fruits, vegetables, and herbs were often a necessity. Today, such gardens provide edible rewards. Propose that your client's cultivating their favorite variety of tomatoes and squash in existing beds next to the azaleas or hedgerow.

Cater to the Critters When planning your client's landscape investigate which native plants attract birds and butterflies. A few carefully placed bird feeders and birdbaths will add to the enjoyment of the outside space. Squirrel feeders are also easy as well as toad houses.

Advice courtesy of www.afrmortgage.com