How to Choose Low Impact Landscaping Materials

Many people mistakenly believe that the visual appeal of a landscaping project is the only important factor in a design’s success. Instead, it’s also important to consider the impact the landscape will have on the natural environment. Low impact landscaping elements offer multiple benefits: they’re visually appealing and won’t hurt the ecosystem. As you prepare to embark on your own landscaping in Waterloo or the surrounding area, use the following guidelines to choose the right materials for your project.

Incorporate Unprocessed Natural Elements

Plenty of discussion in sustainable landscaping revolves around how best to blend landscaped areas with the natural space around them. Incorporating unprocessed materials into the design is perhaps the easiest way to achieve this goal. Plenty of different natural options make stunning additions to landscape projects. These include natural stone and untreated wood, both of which can be used ornamentally or in construction. Whenever possible, it’s also great to use recycled materials, which might otherwise end up in a landfill.

Pick Local Suppliers

If you head to a local big box store, you’ll find landscape items from across the continent. While sometimes it’s unavoidable to use such elements, it is always better to work with local suppliers who source their materials from southern Ontario. In choosing these resources, you are not only opting for a product with a much lower carbon footprint, but you are also choosing low impact landscape options that don’t look out of place among the natural flora and fauna. Plus, you’re supporting a local business and we think that is always a great idea.

Consider the Existing Landscape

Even if you are working to transform a plain Jane backyard with seemingly no preexisting landscape, it is still important to analyze the resources already in place. Yes, even a simple yard has elements like soil, trees, and natural plants that need to be taken into consideration as you bring your landscaping vision to life.

A few suggestions to lighten your project’s environmental impact include:

• Avoid mixing soils: Don’t purchase products like triple mix unless absolutely necessary. In most cases, the existing soil can be reused for almost any landscape need.
• Choose plants wisely: It can be tempting to seek out plants for your landscape project based solely on visual appeal, but instead, look for elements that work well with the existing soil.
• Stay away from chemicals: There is simply no reason to use dyed mulches, which are actually a much lower quality material. Opt for natural shredded pine or cedar, both of which look great and serve their intended purpose well.

Ready to embark on your own low impact landscaping in Ayr, Cambridge, or Kitchener? Why not partner with the Quiet Nature team? Our staff of talented horticulturalists and skilled contractors will work together to bring a stunning project to life on your property. Get started today by giving us a call: (519) 632-5218