"Sustainable" Landscape Design

[Tom Landis]

In the design/build classes I present many of the participants are very
active with work and play so I hear many comments/concerns regarding how to
simplify lifestyles.

Most concerns are that lifestyles don't leave much time for yard work.
Folks seem to want a carefree landscape design.

Some of the ideas presented by class participants are:

* Choose indigenous plants and place them in the right location.

* Give plants enough space to develop their full size.

* Follow the 'KISS' principle (keep it simple, stupid).

* Mulch the landscape with a thick layer of wood chips.

I'm looking for additional ideas to share with participants regarding the
notion of "sustainable" landscape design.........any ideas or resources
would be appreciated.

Best Regards.........

Tom Landis
Owner Builder Services
http://www.ownerbuilder.com/
"......advocating for owners in the Design/Build process."

[Anthony Noa]

I designed and constructed a 'water-garden' for a family that had little
time to invest in regular upkeep. All the plants, sprinkler systems and
aquatics were developed so the garden could be left alone for months. The
family spends an average of 2 hours a month (with many months of no work)
in its upkeep. A correctly installed watergarden 'virtually' can take care
of itself and offer a much greater visual and environmental stimulus than
standard landscaping... and if planned well, can be less expensive.

You can view this garden at:
http://www.cirr.com/~ntwgs/pondTour/tour95-35.html
--
Anthony Noa
n...@sprintmail.com