Photo credit: Mary Meyer

Millions of dollars are spent each year designing, implementing, and maintaining urban landscapes. Unfortunately, long-term problems are caused when these processes are not carried out properly. Many of the problems can be avoided or reduced by utilizing sustainable landscape practices. A landscape developed with sustainable practices will improve the environment by conserving resources and reducing chemical applications. A sustainable landscape will also reduce labor inputs, making it less expensive to implement and maintain.

The key to creating a sustainable landscape is understanding that the design process should be considered first. Plant selection, implementation, and maintenance build on the design process, each having sustainability as a major consideration.^[1]

• The links in the navigation box are your gateway to learning more about landscaping. Begin by clicking "Design and Plant Selection."

Landscaping content reviewers share their expertise with eXtension's Gardens, Lawns, and Landscapes to provide consumers and the green industry relevant, up-to-date, fact-based, and reliable horticultural information.

Credits

1. ↑ Exerpt from SULIS, Sustainable Urban Landscape Information Series.