SUSTAINABLE LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.DAVEY.COM/CARETAKER PROPER PLANT SELECTION Using native plants and others ideal for your landscape will save money and help the environment. ey require less supplemental irrigation, pesticide treatment and fertilizer than non-native plants. IRRIGATION SYSTEM Auditing your irrigation system is the first step in ensuring you get the best return on the investment. An effective irrigation system can reduce water use, and drip irrigation cuts down on the amount of water lost to runoff and evaporation. PERENNIAL COLOR DISPLAYS Perennials can offer the same visual impact as annuals with less cost and maintenance. e investment in perennials often pays off in a few seasons, and the flowers return every year. Perennials can also be divided to beautify other areas of your property. PROPER MULCHING Using effective amounts of mulch can help retain soil moisture and reduce irrigation amounts. Gravel as mulch lowers soil temperature, inhibits weeds and requires less frequent replenishment. GREEN MAINTENANCE Try reverting to “old-school” methods of maintenance. Pruning shrubs by hand is better for air quality, the plants, and allows the pruner to create a more natural shape. Also recycling grass clippings, leaves, shearings, etc. will trim the expense for transporting materials to an off-site location. WATER CONSERVATION Low-flow water devices have been shown to save water and money. Rain gardens can slow the runoff of rainwater, help eliminate overload on stormwater systems and reduce erosion. Sustainable properties yield higher occupancy, increased profits, a better public image and a healthier, more prosperous landscape.