Sustainable landscaping for new homes and those with HOA requirements

Whether you've just moved into a newly built house or you're living in a subdivision with HOA requirements, landscaping your property is a crucial step in making your house feel like home. While traditional grass lawns might seem like the easiest option, they often require extensive upkeep and don’t provide much environmental benefit. Instead, consider the advantages of sustainable  plant landscaping to create a unique and beautiful outdoor space while still complying with HOA rules.

The challenge of new developments

New housing developments often feature vast expanses of grass, resulting in a uniform and uninspiring landscape. Additionally, these areas are typically devoid of trees and other vegetation, lacking privacy and in some cases leaving them exposed to wind. However, by partnering with the right landscape designer, you can incorporate trees, shrubs, and native plants in a way that transforms your sea of grass into a thriving oasis. By doing this, you create a private oasis for your family while fostering a haven for beneficial insects and birds.

Benefits of a sustainable plant landscape for new developments

1. Water Management

Clay soil, often found in Western Michigan, can contribute to water runoff, which not only erodes the land but also carries chemicals into the nearby watershed. Native plants, with their deep root systems, are excellent at absorbing water and reducing runoff. Species like gray sedge and swamp milkweed can capture and utilize this water before it reaches drainage pipes. 

Additionally, use rocks and boulders to create visual interest and assist with water management. Placing boulders strategically around your yard, and in particular around your home, can help disperse and slow down runoff, allowing plants more time to absorb water.

2. Filtration of Chemical Runoff

Lawns often require chemical treatments that can be harmful to the environment. Native plants act as natural filters, absorbing and breaking down these chemicals before they enter our watersheds. In addition, native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil, making them more resilient and less dependent on watering and fertilizers. By choosing native species, you’re not only enhancing the beauty of your yard but also protecting the local ecosystem.

3. Wind Protection and Privacy

In new developments without established trees, your home may be exposed to strong winds. Strategically planting trees and shrubs around your property can act as a windbreak, making your outdoor space more comfortable. Trees not only offer shade and beauty but also serve as habitats for birds and pollinators. Over time, these plants will grow to create a natural barrier, offering privacy from neighboring homes and providing a habitat for local fauna.

Creating a Unique Landscape Within HOA Guidelines

Living in a community with HOA rules doesn’t mean your landscape has to be cookie-cutter. Sustainable plant landscaping can be designed with clean lines and structured layouts to meet HOA requirements while still providing a vibrant and diverse ecosystem. Acknowledging that some HOAs are more open to naturalistic designs while others may be resistant, it's important to approach your landscaping project with awareness and preparation. In some cases, it might mean presenting educational information to help persuade your HOA about the benefits of sustainable plant landscaping. 

If you suspect your HOA might be resistant, it may require some initial conversations to get on the same page and understand what allowances there might be. At Roots Wild, we're happy to assist in this process, providing the necessary information and support to help you advocate for a more sustainable and beautiful yard within your community guidelines.

Transforming your new home's landscape with native plants offers numerous benefits, from water management and chemical filtration to wind protection and increased privacy. By choosing sustainable landscaping practices, you can create a unique and beautiful outdoor space that aligns with HOA guidelines and supports local ecosystems. Embrace the potential of your yard and enjoy the long-term rewards of a sustainable  plant landscape. Welcome to your new, vibrant, and sustainable outdoor oasis!