| ANALYZE
YOUR SITE
1.
Run-off:
Proper grading of your landscape can help direct the flow of water
so that the water you apply will soak in rather than run-off. Grading
can also enhance the interest of your landscape. Proper irrigation
equipment and watering strategies eliminate wasteful run-off.
2.
Energy Savings:
Plant materials cool the immediate environment. Well placed trees
and shrubs will lower building and street temperatures in the summer.
Using deciduous trees and shrubs, those which drop their leaves
in the winter, will allow the sun to warm buildings during cooler
seasons. Tremendous interior energy savings can be realized.
3.
Entry Aesthetics:
Set a particular ambiance or theme that coordinates the look of
both the inside and outside of your home or business.
4.
Investment Zone:
Create small "investment zones" for maximum visual effect,
such as seasonal color at entries. Both of these types of plantings
use the most water, require the most maintenance time, and are the
highest continuous expense in any garden.
5.
Fire Resistant/Retardant:
Plant materials with less flammable parts: more leaf than wood and
less woody undergrowth. Well-pruned plants contain less fire fuel.
6.
Safety:
Trees planted near walkways and in turf can produce surface rooting--a
potential safety hazard. Water runoff and overspray make sidewalks
slippery for use, particularly during cold periods of the High Desert
winter. Make sure your plans avoid potential human hazards.
Property
Value:
Property values are increased by landscapes that provide shade,
interest, color, attract birds and butterflies, while costing less
in time and water. More plants also mean positive benefits for the
environment, including oxygen production, pollution filtration and
urban cooling.
Seasonal
Variation:
Choose plants that celebrate the seasons of the High Desert, adding
color and variety.
Plant
Zoning:
Grouping plants according to their water needs and maintenance requirements
will save water and work. Plan plant zones with landscape uses,
microclimates, maintenance budgets in mind to achieve maximum water
savings, plant health and natural attractiveness.
Parking
Areas:
Produce a cooling shade area with appropriate trees planted in large
basins.
Microclimates:
Hotter or cooler areas, sunny or shady spots are created by buildings
and trees depending upon North/South/East/West exposure. Each demands
specific plant choices and watering strategy.
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