Right Plant, Right Place

The most environmentally sound practice that you can use when selecting plants is to select plants that are compatible with the site. In other words, drought tolerant plants should be used in dry, sandy, exposed areas while plants adapted to wet soils should be planted in low spots or areas of low drainage. Light, humidity and salt requirements also need to be considered. Plants should be grouped according to their water, fertilizer and maintenance needs for ease of care.

Proper placement of plants can reduce heating and cooling costs by providing shade or wind barriers.

If your goal is to provide for wildlife, select plants with berries, fruit, and nectar as well as plants that provide areas for shelter and raising young.

Native plants are an environmentally sound choice for many reasons, including ease of care and providing food sources for native wildlife. Since the goal of Take Care of Your Share ™ is to help preserve the beauty of the local environment, we encourage the use of some native plants in your landscape. However, as with any plant, the proper location is important for its survival. Just because a plant is native to the area does not mean it will thrive if placed in the wrong location in your yard.

Keep these thoughts in mind when selecting plants for your landscape:

• What are your goals with your landscaping? There are many benefits to proper landscaping, including aesthetics, improved resale value, noise reduction, climate control and wildlife habitat.
• How do you use your yard? Do you need play areas for children, relaxation areas for adults, or vegetable gardens for nourishment? Do you enjoy gardening or would you rather have a yard that practically takes care of itself?
• Analyze your site for its dry and moist areas, sunny and shade areas, etc. A rough drawing of the property with these areas marked will allow your favorite nursery to help your select the proper plants.
• Remove any exotic invasive species.
• Select plants for your planting zone.