Vegetation - Sustainable Landscapes

Goal: Develop plant communities that serve as a foundation for a healthy ecosystem.

		Use lawn only when it performs a specific function such as a play surface, pathway, or foreground for plant display, thus reducing extra inputs of chemicals, energy and time.
			> Turf Grass Madness: Reasons to Reduce the Lawn in Your Landscape
			> Groundcover Alternatives to Turf Grass
			> South Greenhouse Garden (an example of a no-lawn garden at UDBG)

		Eliminate the use of and remove vegetation that can harm ecosystems, such as recognized invasive species.
			> Controlling Backyard Invaders
			> Mistaken Identity? Invasive Plants and their Native Look-Alikes
			> Plants for a Livable Delaware

		Choose plants that are adapted to the site's conditions and support local wildlife.
			> Livable Plants for the Home Landscape

		Consider replacing alien species with appropriate native species that achieve the same purpose (e.g. aesthetics, function).
			> Native Plants for Delaware Landscapes (trees & shrubs)
			> Plants for Wildlife Habitat and Conservation Landscaping

		Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies (i.e. scouting, life-cycle knowledge and decision-making based on that information).
			> IPM for Homeowners

		Maintain and increase vegetative coverage to increase biodiversity.
			> Supporting Biodiversity in the Garden
			> Wildlife-Attracting Plants for the Home Landscape
			> Groundcover Alternatives to Turf Grass

		Preserve as many important (mature, healthy, native) plants as possible.
			> Checklist for Plant Removal Decisions

	Sustainable Landscapes Home	Soils	Hydrology	Vegetation	Materials	Human Wellness

 

Photos may not be used without written permission from the UDBG Director.