10 Things to Consider for a Sustainable Landscape Design

10 Things to Consider for a Sustainable Landscape Design


When renovating a landscape, it is important to talk to your design team about sustainability from the beginning. Houzz landscape professionals have shared key topics homeowners should ask about for a more sustainable garden. These include irrigation needs, stormwater management, and native plants. Irrigation needs can be reduced by as little as 20%, while stormwater management can be decreased by as much as 50%. Native plants can support local animal species, and eliminating or reducing the size of a traditional lawn can reduce water use in the garden.

Finally, homeowners should ask designers what a low-water garden looks like in their area. A landscape designer may recommend a rain garden or bioswale to reduce stormwater runoff. They can slow down water movement, clean the water and keep it out of sewer systems. Amending garden soil to absorb and retain water can also help prevent runoff and erosion. Rain barrels collect and hold water from roof runoff in a storage tank.

Permeable surfaces such as stone patios and driveways can be added to keep rainwater on-site and reduce runoff. Locally sourced materials leave an ecological footprint and homeowners should ask about the origin and sustainability of materials.