For May, Thor gives tips for a smart garden that's pleasing to the eye and gentle on your environment.

The Right Landscape

The right landscape can increase a home’s value by up to 15%, according to the Association of Landscape Contractors of America. Most people think that “landscape” simply means plants. But consider the many other elements outside of your home: decks or patios, walkways, parking areas, fences, rockeries–all contribute to the way your home presents itself to the world. If any of these elements are chosen without proper care, they can create a variety of problems, from lessening your home’s street appeal to releasing toxic chemicals, increasing the likelihood of flooding and polluting the greater environment.

Fortunately, you can enhance how your property looks and functions with landscape materials that are better for both you and the environment. You’ll find ecologically superior products in a range of styles, to complement your home and personal tastes.

Choose to reuse
Salvaged materials can be an affordable, environmentally friendly way to outfit your landscape. Broken concrete makes great retaining walls and walkways. Salvaged brick has endless applications. Used stone, metal, and wood all are locally available and can impart historical charm. 

Buy recycled
Compost, recycled plastic lumber, tumbled recycled glass, recycled cast-glass pavers, and nutshells all help make use of materials that would likely otherwise end up as waste. 

Think fish- and kid-friendly
Avoid materials that require toxic treatment or finishes. Recycled plastic and wood-plastic lumber and landscape timbers are impervious to rot and are very low maintenance. 

Let the rain in
Aim to minimize hard surfaces that don’t allow water to soak into the soil. “Pervious” pavers allow water to filter into the ground while still providing firm footing. Make sure the water you’re keeping on site is directed away from your home and neighboring structures.

For more on selecting landscape materials with an eye for health and the environment, see the Landscape Materials guide in the Green Home Remodel series, by going to www.seattle.gov/sustainablebuilding and clicking on Green Home Remodel.

And don’t stop at the bones of your garden when it comes to green: choose lawn and garden care practices that are healthy for you and the environment, and use fewer resources. For information on Natural Lawn and Garden Care, go to www.savingwater.org and click on Conserve Outside.