Not only do gorgeous gardens give you a tranquil place to relax, but you can also use them to attract wildlife with gardening. With so many of our natural resources disappearing around us, we have to do our part- especially being in the green industry and eco-conscious gardening is a great way to achieve that. Various plants and flowers can actually help the environment and help to increase its resources. Being in the outdoors and green industry means that we must do our part in keeping the delicate ecosystem going. Sprinkler systems can be a great tool for water conservation and make sure that there is no wasted water. Even outdoor landscape lighting has come a long way with LED bulbs that burn longer reducing the number of times you need to replace the bulbs. LED bulbs also require less energy to keep them going.

 

For now, let’s take a look at the different ways your garden can help the ecosystem to thrive and encourage wildlife to visit:

1. Add a bird bath to your outdoor space or garden.

It doesn’t take a lot of water, you want to keep just an inch or two. Just enough to attract the birds looking to cool off or take a drink.

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2. If you have space, add groves or thickets.

Plant native trees to your area or berry bushes. The fruit from the plant encourages the wildlife as well as a homegrown snack for yourself. For a clean look, keep the bushes of the same species or keep the color to a set pattern.

3. Add layered plantings.

Space permitting, add canopy like maple trees or cherry trees farther back in the planting area. Then layer in front of that medium-sized trees (Japanese Maple) and keep going from there with bushes or shrubs. In the front, you can add perennial flowers that attract birds, bees, and butterflies.

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4. Plant native fruit trees.

How convenient to be able to walk outside and grab your own fresh fruit? Planting native fruit trees not only supply you with delicious, in-season produce but attracts and supports birds, caterpillars, and butterflies.

 

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5. Add a pool or pond

Water features are a fabulous way to bring wildlife to your backyard. While providing a habitat for plants and animals, it allows you to create a relaxing retreat right in your own home.

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6. Add vines

Vines are great in small areas where you want to create a space for wildlife. Since they grow up, there is little space required. Hummingbirds are known to visit trumpet honeysuckle and native clematis.

Once you have decided on what type of landscaping you want, it’s important to maintain it with proper watering. Each plant has different needs and properties can vary in their water retention and shade. Hiring a professional landscaper as well as irrigation company will ensure that the needs are being met of your landscape. While there are many DIY platforms out there, there is plumbing that needs to be done on a sprinkler system or if you are planning on adding a water feature. Leave the hard work to the professionals and let yourself enjoy your new backyard oasis.