In East Greenwich and West Greenwich, RI, the unique New England climate and terrain mean your “landscaping near me” strategies need to be well thought out and adaptable. The area's stunning natural beauty offers a fantastic backdrop for your home, and with the right approach, your landscaping can enhance this setting. Here are some strategies for adapting your landscaping to fit the local environment and your personal style.
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Consider the Local Climate
The climate in our region is characterized by cold winters and warm summers. This seasonal variation means selecting plantings that can withstand a wide range of temperatures. Consider native plantings that are adapted to the local climate and will thrive with minimal intervention. They'll be more resistant to local pests and diseases and will fit in naturally with the surrounding landscape.
Plan for Four Seasons of Interest
A well-designed landscape will provide interest throughout all four seasons. In the spring, bulbs and blooming trees can provide early color. Summer brings lush greenery and the full bloom of many plantings. Fall is a time for rich, warm colors as many trees and shrubs change color. And in winter, evergreens, berries, and the structural elements of your landscape, like natural stone walls or trellises, can add beauty and interest.
Manage Water Wisely
Managing water is an important part of landscaping. Incorporating features like permeable pavers can help manage stormwater runoff and prevent erosion. Consider drought-tolerant plantings to reduce the need for watering and choose an efficient irrigation system that targets water directly to the plantings that need it.
Embrace the Natural Landscape
The natural landscape in our area is one of the area's biggest assets. Work with the existing terrain rather than against it. Use native stone for walls and walkways, and choose plantings that will fit in with the natural ecosystem. Consider the views and vistas from your property and design your landscape to enhance them.
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Incorporating Structural Elements
Elements like paver patios, walkways, and retaining walls can add structure and functionality to your landscape. They can define spaces, provide walkways, and create areas for outdoor living and entertainment. Choose materials that complement your home and the natural landscape, and consider the long-term maintenance and durability of these elements.
Focus on Sustainability
Sustainable landscaping is about more than just planting selection. It's about designing a landscape that is in harmony with the local environment and requires minimal resources to maintain. This can include reducing lawn areas, using native plantings, incorporating organic landscaping practices, and using mulch to reduce weeds and conserve water.
Add Seasonal Color and Texture
To keep your landscape interesting year-round, incorporate plantings with various blooming times, colors, and textures. Consider the sequence of bloom in your landscape, so you always have something blooming. Use plantings with interesting bark, foliage, or form to add texture and visual interest even when they're not in bloom.
Consider Wildlife
Your landscaping can provide valuable habitat for local wildlife. Consider incorporating plantings that provide food and shelter for birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. Features like bird baths or nesting boxes can also attract wildlife to your landscape.
Consult with Local Experts
Consider consulting with local landscape design and build experts. They understand the unique challenges and opportunities of landscaping in our area and can provide valuable advice and services. Whether you're looking for a complete landscape overhaul or just some minor improvements, a local expert can help you achieve your landscaping goals.
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About the Author
Peter Grandin, founder of Grandin Landscape and GrandScapes, has always shown a passion for nature. Even as a young man he started his own lawn maintenance company in grammar school (Pete's Mowing Service). This helped to support his study of horticulture at URI. Peter knew, even in his early years, that there is a perfect combination of the beauty of nature as well as the personalities of people, and that the harmonization of the two would be the driving force for his company's success.
