With its beautiful blend of historic architecture and scenic views, East Greenwich, RI offers a unique canvas for homeowners to create captivating front yard landscapes. Integrating indigenous plantings and adapting to the local climate ensures not only sustainability but also an enchanting visual delight. This blog delves deep into the art of landscape design, focusing on the choices of front yard plantings and design solutions that harmonize with the local environment.
Understanding the Local Climate
We are nestled in a temperate zone, which means we experience a delightful change across all four seasons. This cyclical climate demands a strategic selection of plants. During the warmer months of spring and summer, the town blossoms with vibrant colors from perennials like Daylilies, Bee Balm, and Salvia.
As autumn graces the region, plants such as Burning Bush, Dogwood, and Oakleaf Hydrangea reveal a palette of stunning reds, oranges, and yellows. Even the snowy cloak of winter can't dampen the spirits of resilient plants like Winterberry and Boxwood that provide a touch of green amidst the white.
Incorporating Native Plantings
There's an inherent wisdom in opting for native plants. These flora, having evolved over time in the local conditions, naturally require less water, resist local pests more effectively, and serve as sanctuaries for native fauna. Trees, for instance, can dramatically shape the landscape. Varieties like the Eastern Red Cedar and Sugar Maple not only offer shade but also act as elegant garden centerpieces.
Shrubs, particularly low-growing varieties like Bayberry and Sweetfern, prove to be functional ground covers, minimizing the need for expansive and water-thirsty lawns. For those seeking a dash of color, plants such as the New England Aster and Butterfly Weed are perfect candidates. They effortlessly brighten spaces and are magnets for lovely pollinators.
Design Solutions to Consider
The landscape's physical design holds as much significance as the plant choices. Natural stone pathways, for example, can encapsulate the intrinsic beauty of our region, guiding visitors and adding depth to the garden.
Water features are a homeowner's ally in elevating the garden's sensory appeal. The calming sounds from a bubbling fountain or a serene pond create a peaceful ambiance. Replacing traditional lawns with low-maintenance grasses such as Blue Fescue or Feather Reed Grass can be both an aesthetic and practical choice. They introduce varied textures to the yard and are notably drought-resistant. Defining landscape borders with natural elements like tall grasses or hedges can craft a seamless landscape transition, providing an organic look and feel.
Embracing Sustainability
The modern landscaping ethos leans heavily towards sustainability. Making eco-friendly choices, from selecting drought-resistant flora to installing efficient irrigation systems, reflects a commitment to environmental preservation. Organic mulch, for instance, can be an asset, reducing water evaporation while keeping weeds at bay.
Innovative Lighting Solutions
As the sun sets, the right lighting can transform a garden from beautiful to magical. Thoughtful placement of LED lights can illuminate pathways, highlight specific plants, or create ambient zones within the yard. Beyond the visual appeal, effective lighting enhances safety and security. Creative use of shadows can further add depth and intrigue, making the garden a delightful space both day and night.
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.
