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Before agriculture and urban development, the Midwest landscape was primarily comprised of prairie vegetation for thousands of years.
Due to large, robust root systems, native plants cultivated rich soil with high organic content and created space within the ground that guided rainwater infiltration. The landscape acted similar to a sponge, easily able to absorb stormwater with little runoff into rivers, lakes, and streams.
In stark contrast, today’s turf and concrete landscapes are impervious and compacted.
Runoff is a common with rainfall and snowmelt, contributing to poor water quality, erosion, and elevated flood risks. For years, native plants and naturescaping only existed along waterways, or in wetlands, prairies, and nature preserves. However, as more people discover the significant benefits they provide over traditional landscaping, native plant landscaping design has become common everywhere from parks to residential developments and large, institutional campuses.
In a world where natural habitats struggle to survive, the return of native plants to everyday landscapes is an aesthetically pleasing change with unique benefits:
Drawing upon the knowledge and experience of our landscape architects and environmental scientists, we’re able to guide the success of native landscapes for our clients. As with any landscaping decision, there are many factors to consider during the planning process, which are well-known and practiced by our landscape design professionals.
Design Concept Development
All projects are tailored to meet the needs of our clients and their individual landscape goals. Through the selection of appropriate native plants, each landscape is designed to suit the conditions of the project site.
Site Conditions & Preparation
Site preparation is significantly dependent on existing site conditions and varies widely from removing invasive plant species to amending and restoring damaged or compacted soil. Planting and seed specifications are selected based on many factors including soil, sun exposure, and climate conditions.
Construction & Planting Plans
Native plantings are typically started in the spring when temperatures are mild and soil moisture is high to allow for the greatest chance of survival. However, planting can occur at any time during the growing season, but a watering schedule may be required. Dormant seeding in late fall is also an option, when necessary. No matter what time of year planting will occur, planting plans are created in phases with varying levels of complexity to guide optimal plant establishment.
Maintenance
Mowing, weeding, and burning are aspects of initial maintenance to control invasive species that are often overlooked. We can assist with the development of maintenance plans to foster the health and establishment of your naturescape.
Monitoring
It may take anywhere from two to five years for a native landscape to become well-established. As the naturescape matures, additions to the site or changes to maintenance may be necessary. We can provide long-term monitoring and recommendations as the landscape progresses.
Keep the following aspects in mind to guide the growth and sustainability of your native plant landscape:
Installation & Establishment
Long-term Maintenance
The Landscape Architects at Snyder & Associates have completed a wide variety of successful native landscape projects over the past 15 years. From one-tenth of an acre to 200-acres and beyond, when it comes to native landscapes, we value the low-maintenance beauty and environmental benefits that naturescaping provides.