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Nurturing Nature Responsibly: Water Conservation Through Better Design

by Heather Day / August 5, 2023

Water conservation is a critical mission for our planet's sustainable future, and Native Edge Landscape has always been at the forefront of this eco-conscious movement. With our vision of responsible landscapes, we employ innovative techniques like xeriscaping, hardscaping, and water-wise plant selection to make a lasting impact on water conservation. Envision what your space could be while we explore our role in creating environmentally responsible landscapes.

Xeriscaping: A Texas-Friendly Landscape Approach

Xeriscaping is a landscape design philosophy that embraces water-efficient practices, reducing water usage without sacrificing beauty and functionality. Here's how Native Edge incorporates the principles of xeriscaping:

  • Drought-Tolerant Plants: Xeriscaping involves using native and drought-tolerant plants that thrive in the local climate with minimal water needs. These resilient species retain water more effectively, reducing irrigation demands significantly.
  • Soil Improvement: By enhancing the soil's ability to retain moisture, xeriscaping ensures that plants make the most of the water they receive.
  • Mulching: Mulching around plants reduces evaporation, keeps the soil cooler, and minimizes weed growth, further conserving water.
  • Grouping Plants by Water Needs: Strategic plant grouping based on water requirements helps ensure efficient irrigation practices.

Hardscape: Striking a Balance

Hardscape elements, such as patios, walkways, and retaining walls, are integral to any landscape. However, too much of the wrong kinds of hardscape can hinder water absorption and contribute to irresponsible runoff. Native Edge tackles this challenge by finding the right balance between hardscape and green space:

  • Permeable Materials: Using permeable materials and aggregates allows for rainwater to seep into the ground, preventing runoff and replenishing the water table.
  • Efficient Contouring and Drainage: Strategic contouring of hardscape elements, combined with efficient drainage solutions, directs rainwater to areas where it can be absorbed or reused effectively. This prevents wasteful runoff and improves water retention in the soil, promoting healthier landscapes.
  • Beauty and Functionality in Harmony: At Native Edge, we never compromise on aesthetics or functionality. Our hardscape designs seamlessly blend with the landscape, delivering visual appeal while conserving water.
  • Local. Sustainable.: We love to use local hardscape materials wherever we can, employing the aesthetic of our Texas landscape and reducing the environmental strain of transportation. Local mulch, Texas cedar, Brazos River rock, hill country limestone. We also employ materials excavated from your site wherever we can, including our local impressive limestone boulders.

Water-Wise Plant Selection: Flourishing Sustainably

Native Edge Landscape understands that striking landscapes can still be achieved without excessive water consumption. Our approach includes:

  • Native Plants: By incorporating native plants, we ensure the landscape is in harmony with the local ecosystem, reducing the need for additional watering and promoting biodiversity.
  • Drought-Tolerant Species: Carefully selecting drought-tolerant plants promises a vibrant, resilient landscape that thrives even in dry spells.
  • Smart Irrigation: Using advanced irrigation systems, Native Edge can help you deliver the right amount of water at the right time, minimizing waste while optimizing plant health.

Water Conservation is a collective responsibility, and we here at Native Edge lead by example, spearheading eco-friendly practices that prioritize xeriscaping, responsible hardscape, and water-wise plant selection. By embracing these principles, we can create stunning landscapes that prosper without straining precious water resources. Join us as we promote sustainability and choose to nurture nature responsibly, creating a greener world for generations to come. Together, we can ensure a thriving future for both our landscapes and our planet.

Georgetown Native Nook

by Dillon Tuttle / November 21, 2020

After these homeowners moved from a modern house in east Austin out to the hill country of Georgetown, they wanted to modernize their landscaping without clashing with their new home. The pre-existing, overgrown beds provided a great shape, so the designer decided to reenforce them with metal edging, and fill them with drought tolerant perennials and structural plants that look great year round. The old plantings had become untamed, shrouding the home and leaving little room to breathe. The new xeriscape was designed to be minimal and sporadic, leaving plenty of room for the new plants to grow into the space. Pea gravel and river rock where the chosen top dressings instead of traditional mulch to keep with the modern theme of the landscaping. Outdoor lighting was added to create depth throughout the property. Not only were they added against the home, they were added to every tree in the front yard, lighting the entire area with a warm, welcoming glow.

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The inking has begun!!

by Rodney Stoutenger / April 21, 2016

The inking has begun!![igp-likes] Instagram LikesThe inking has begun!! #designtime #nativeedge #custompouredconcrete #woodscreens #raisedplanters #xeriscaping #getexcitedaboutyourgarden