5 Eco-Friendly Walkway Materials for Your Outdoor Space

October 14, 2024/in Sustainable Landscaping, Hardscapes/by Mary Monday

Choosing the right materials for your outdoor space isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about making choices that benefit both your home and the environment.

Eco-friendly walkway materials are becoming increasingly popular as more homeowners look for ways to create beautiful, sustainable landscapes.

Whether planning a new pathway or upgrading an existing one, selecting eco-friendly materials is a step towards a greener future that offers long-lasting benefits for you and your outdoor space.

Why Choose Eco-Friendly Walkway Materials?

Opting for eco-friendly walkway materials is more than just a trend—it’s a thoughtful choice that benefits both your outdoor space and the environment.

First and foremost, these materials help reduce your carbon footprint by minimizing the use of non-renewable resources and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. When you choose sustainable options like permeable pavers or natural stones, you’re contributing to a healthier planet.

Beyond the environmental impact, eco-friendly materials often offer long-term cost savings. Many of these options are highly durable, requiring less maintenance and fewer replacements over time. This saves money and reduces waste, further supporting sustainability efforts.

Additionally, eco-friendly walkway materials can enhance the natural beauty of your garden, seamlessly blending with the surrounding landscape. By picking materials that go well with nature, you create a space that blends seamlessly with the landscape and creates a more harmonious outdoor environment.

5 Eco-Friendly Walkway Materials to Consider

When choosing materials for your outdoor walkways, eco-friendly options enhance your space’s beauty and support sustainable practices. Here’s a look at five excellent eco-friendly walkway materials that blend functionality with environmental benefits:

1. Gravel

Gravel is a popular choice for walkways due to its natural look, durability, low cost and ease of installation. For example, pea gravel creates a soft, natural surface that complements informal garden settings, while crushed granite offers excellent stability and a more structured appearance suited for modern landscapes.

Gravel allows for excellent drainage, making it a permeable option that helps manage water runoff and reduces erosion. This is particularly useful in areas prone to heavy rainfall.

2. Decomposed Granite

Decomposed granite offers a compact, natural appearance that blends well with garden environments. For example, decomposed granite pathways create a solid, stable surface that remains resilient under foot traffic, making it perfect for garden trails or informal paths.

Its natural look and easy maintenance make it a popular choice for eco-friendly landscaping. Decomposed granite is often used in xeriscaping projects, where water conservation is key, providing a visually appealing surface that complements drought-tolerant plants.

3. Recycled Concrete Pavers

Recycled concrete pavers are an excellent example of sustainable material use. Made from repurposed concrete, these pavers can feature varied designs, such as interlocking paver systems or mosaic patterns, adding both strength and aesthetic versatility to walkways.

They help reduce waste from demolished structures and lower the environmental impact of construction materials.

For instance, a walkway made from recycled concrete pavers might include patterns that mimic natural stone, providing a stylish and eco-friendly solution for outdoor spaces.

4. Natural Stone

Natural stone is prized for its longevity and aesthetic appeal. Materials like flagstone, often used in classic stepping stone paths, or slate, which can be cut into tiles for a sophisticated look, are durable and can be sourced with minimal environmental impact.

For example, Flagstone is used in residential and commercial landscapes due to its strength and timeless appeal. Its natural variations in color and texture ensure that each walkway is unique, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the outdoor space while providing a durable surface.

5. Permeable Pavers

Permeable pavers are designed to manage water efficiently, allowing it to pass through the surface and into the ground. Permeable interlocking concrete pavers, for example, help reduce runoff and support sustainable water management.

These pavers combine traditional charm with modern functionality, making them practical for residential and garden walkways. Their ability to handle storm water effectively helps prevent flooding and erosion while offering an attractive solution for eco-conscious landscaping.

Key Considerations When Choosing Eco-Friendly Walkway Materials

Selecting suitable eco-friendly walkway materials involves more than just choosing a sustainable option. Several key factors should guide your decision to ensure that your walkway meets both functional and aesthetic needs.

Climate

The local climate is crucial in determining which materials will perform best. For instance, gravel or permeable pavers that facilitate drainage in regions with heavy rainfall can help prevent water pooling and erosion. Composed granite or crushed stone might be preferable in arid climates due to their durability and low maintenance needs.

Soil Type

The type of soil in your garden influences the performance of certain materials. Materials like gravel and crushed stone can provide a stable surface if your soil is sandy or loose. Conversely, if you have clay soil that can become muddy and compacted, opting for materials with good drainage properties, such as permeable pavers, can help mitigate water runoff and soil erosion issues.

Intended Use of the Pathway

To select the most suitable material, consider how the walkway will be used. Crushed stone or recycled concrete pavers offer durability and resistance to wear in high-traffic areas. Natural stone or decomposed granite can provide both aesthetic appeal and functionality for decorative pathways in a garden. The intended use will guide you towards materials that balance durability with design considerations.

Sourcing Materials Locally

To further enhance the sustainability of your walkway, prioritize sourcing materials locally. This practice helps reduce transportation emissions and supports local economies. For example, locally quarried natural stone or regional crushed stone minimizes the carbon footprint of transporting materials over long distances. Additionally, local materials often blend more harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.

Aesthetic Appeal and Landscape Integration

The visual impact of your walkway is as essential as its functionality. Choose materials that complement the overall design of your landscape. Natural stone offers a classic look that pairs well with traditional gardens, while crushed stone or decomposed granite can suit modern or minimalist designs. Consider the materials’ colors, textures, and patterns to ensure they enhance the visual harmony of your outdoor space. By considering these factors, you can select eco-friendly walkway materials that align with your sustainability goals and meet practical and aesthetic needs, creating a beautiful and functional walkway.

Eco-Friendly Walkways From American Landscape

Selecting eco-friendly walkway materials benefits the environment and enhances the beauty and functionality of outdoor areas. By focusing on climate, soil type, and local sourcing, you ensure that your pathway is both practical and stylish.

Ready to design the perfect eco-friendly walkway? Contact American Landscape today.

Considering a Clover Lawn? Weigh the Pros and Cons

August 9, 2024/in Lawn Care, Sustainable Landscaping/by Mary Monday

Clover lawns have emerged as a popular trend in landscaping due to their eco-friendly, low-maintenance, and visually appealing qualities. Unlike traditional grass lawns, clover, particularly white clover, offers several advantages. One of the main reasons for its popularity is its resilience. Clover is drought-tolerant and stays green even in dry conditions, reducing the need for frequent watering. Additionally, as part of the legume family, clover naturally enriches the soil by fixing nitrogen, which enhances soil fertility without the need for chemical fertilizers.

If you are considering making the transition to a clover lawn, here are some benefits and challenges to consider.

Benefits of a Clover Lawn

Clover lawns offer several benefits that make them an attractive alternative to grass lawns.

Minimal Maintenance – Clover spreads quickly but is naturally a shorter growing plant than grass, meaning it doesn’t need frequent mowing, reducing the time and effort required for lawn maintenance.
Superior Drought Resistance – It is drought-resistant, requiring less water than most grass varieties, and it stays green even during dry spells. Like any plant, in severe drought it will require some water.
Natural Soil Enrichment – Clover can grow in very poor soils and naturally adds nitrogen to the soil, reducing the need for artificial fertilizers.
Effective Weed Control – The dense growth habit helps prevent weeds, reducing the need for herbicides.
Erosion Prevention – The robust root system helps protect against soil erosion, ideal for sloped landscapes.
Pollinator-Friendly Habitat – Clover lawns support biodiversity by attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, promoting a healthier environment.
Year-Round Greenery – Clover stays lush and green throughout most the year, even in colder months.
Cushioned Feel – Clover lawns offer a lush, soft texture that is comfortable underfoot
Pet Friendly – Clover is not as sensitive to dog urine which can help eliminate those brown patches in the yard. It’s also perfectly safe if you have pets who like to munch.

Challenges of Establishing a Clover Lawn

While clover lawns offer many benefits, they also come with certain disadvantages and challenges:

Uneven Appearance: Clover can have a patchy look, especially when mixed with grass, as it doesn’t always grow evenly. Some homeowners may find this less visually appealing compared to the uniformity of traditional grass lawns.
Shorter Lifespan: Clover doesn’t handle heavy foot traffic as well as grass and can wear out more quickly in high-traffic areas. Over time, this might require more frequent reseeding. When used in combination with turf grass it is generally not an issue.
Sensitivity to Deep Shade: Clover prefers sunny locations and may struggle to thrive in heavily shaded areas. In such conditions, it can become sparse or fail to grow altogether. In partially shaded areas where grass is sparse it will happily grow to fill in empty spaces.
Attraction to Bees: While clover lawns support pollinators, this can be a drawback for people who are allergic to bee stings or want to avoid bees in areas where children or pets play.
Staining: Clover can be more prone to causing green stains on clothing and shoes than grass.
Invasiveness: Clover can spread beyond the lawn area, potentially becoming invasive in garden beds or neighboring lawns. Managing its growth can require additional effort. If neighbors regularly have their lawn treated for weeds it won’t be a problem.
Initial Establishment: Establishing a clover lawn can take time and patience, as it may not fill in as quickly as grass. During this period, the lawn may look sparse or uneven.

If you are considering introducing clover to your landscape, work with our professional team to maximize the benefits and mitigate the challenges. With 40+ years of experience in helping our clients achieve the lush, green lawns they want, we can help you make the best choice for your specific soil and topography. Call 262-252-4260 or contact us at www.amerlandscape.com

Transform Your Yard with a Rain Garden: Why and How to Establish One

July 10, 2024/in Sustainable Landscaping/by Mary Monday

Is there anything better than looking out your window over a lush landscape and vibrant garden? With June’s unusually rainy weather, we are reaping the benefits with greener lawns and growing garden beds. However, managing stormwater can be a challenge, especially during heavy rains. Enter the rain garden – a beautiful and eco-friendly solution to this common problem. Here’s why you should consider establishing a rain garden and how to get started.

Why a Rain Garden?

Mequon Naturalized Stormwater Management

Rain gardens are designed to collect and absorb runoff from roofs, driveways, and lawns, reducing the amount of stormwater that flows into storm drains and, ultimately, our rivers and lakes. Here are some key benefits:

Environmental Impact:

Rain gardens help filter out pollutants from runoff, improving water quality. They also recharge local groundwater supplies, contributing to a healthier ecosystem.

Flood Control:

By capturing and absorbing rainwater, rain gardens help prevent localized flooding and erosion. This is particularly beneficial in areas with clay soil, common in the Midwest, which can be prone to waterlogging.

Biodiversity:

A well-designed rain garden attracts birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects, enhancing the biodiversity of your yard.

Aesthetic Appeal:

Rain gardens add visual interest to your landscape with a variety of colorful, water-loving plants that thrive in wet conditions.

Getting Started

Creating a rain garden is easier than you might think. Here’s a simple guide to get you started:

Choose the Right Location: Select a low-lying area at least 10 feet away from your home to prevent water from seeping into your foundation. Avoid areas with heavy foot traffic.
Assess the Soil: Conduct a soil test to determine its drainage capacity. Most rain gardens perform best in sandy or loamy soil. If your soil is heavy clay, you might need to amend it with compost or sand.
Design and Size: Plan the shape and size of your rain garden based on the amount of runoff you need to manage. Generally, rain gardens should be 1/3 the size of the impervious surfaces draining into them.
Select Native Plants: Choose native plants that can tolerate both wet and dry conditions. Some excellent choices for Midwest rain gardens include coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and blue flag iris.
Dig and Amend: Dig a shallow depression (6-12 inches deep) and amend the soil if necessary. Create a berm on the downhill side to help retain water.
Plant and Mulch: Arrange your plants in the garden, placing taller species in the center and shorter ones along the edges. Apply a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and reduce weeds.

By establishing a rain garden, you’re not only enhancing the beauty of your landscape but also contributing to a healthier environment. With a bit of planning and effort, you can create a stunning rain garden that benefits both your home and the ecosystem.

Our designers are pros at identifying the perfect location for a rain garden within your landscape. Work with our team to create one in your yard. Start the conversation by calling 262-252-4260 or visit our website at https://amerlandscape.com/contact/.

3 Simple Swaps for More Sustainable Gardening at Home

June 21, 2024/in Sustainable Landscaping, Landscaping/by Mary Monday

In our gardens lie an opportunity to nurture not just plants, but also the planet. Sustainable gardening offers a pathway to minimizing our environmental footprint. Read on to learn about simple things you can do, like saving water and using natural materials, to make your garden not only beautiful but also good for the planet.

Small Steps to Sustainable Gardening

When you think of sustainable gardening, you might envision a lush, green garden requiring much work and maintenance. This doesn’t have to be the case, especially for homeowners. There are many simple ways to create a beautiful, sustainable garden that doesn’t require much time, money, or labor.

Below are a few simple swaps you can make to create a sustainable garden, with some excellent ideas of how to do it.

1. Water Conservation

Water conservation is a hot topic today. With many communities experiencing droughts and water restrictions, it is important to know where to save water and how to use it properly in your garden.

Mulch Your Beds

Mulching beds and plants can help reduce evaporation, leading to less frequent watering. It can also help soil retain moisture, leading to healthier plants and a more resilient garden.

Choose Plants Adapted For a Dryer Environment

When making plant choices for your garden, consider using plants that have good drought tolerance. Read this list of drought-tolerant plants for some ideas.

Reducing Lawn Size

Large lawns and extensive hardscapes require significant resources and contribute to habitat loss. Reducing the size of lawns and incorporating sustainable hardscapes conserves resources and supports local ecosystems.

To get started, we recommend you:

Evaluate your lawn and hardscape areas to identify spaces suitable for conversion to alternative landscapes and permeable surfaces.
Prepare the soil, select appropriate plants for alternative landscapes, and choose eco-friendly hardscape materials.
Establish new landscapes and hardscapes with proper care and maintenance, ensuring that they are resilient and sustainable over time.

Rainwater Harvesting

Harvesting rainwater is a simple and sustainable way to collect and store rainwater for later use in your garden. Instead of letting rainwater runoff into storm drains, which can contribute to erosion and pollution, rainwater harvesting allows you to capture this valuable resource and put it to good use.

Implementing rainwater harvesting in your garden involves the following steps:

Assess Your Roof: Determine the surface area of your roof that can be used to collect rainwater. Based on rainfall patterns and roof size, calculate the amount of water you can harvest.
Install Gutters and Downspouts: Install gutters along the edge of your roof to collect rainwater and direct it towards downspouts. Ensure they are securely attached and direct water towards a suitable collection point.
Choose Collection Methods: Decide on the rainwater collection system that best suits your needs. Options include rain barrels, cisterns, or underground tanks. Consider available space, budget, and desired water storage capacity.
Install Collection Containers: Position your chosen rainwater collection containers beneath downspouts to capture rainwater as it flows from the roof. Ensure containers are stable and properly sealed to prevent contamination and mosquito breeding.
Filter and Purify: Install filters or screens to remove debris and sediment from collected rainwater.
Use and Maintain: Harvested rainwater can water your garden, wash outdoor surfaces, or be used for other non-potable purposes. Regularly inspect and maintain your rainwater harvesting system to ensure proper functioning and prevent potential issues.

Harvesting rainwater offers numerous benefits for both your garden and the environment. By capturing rainwater and using it to irrigate your plants, you can reduce reliance on municipal water sources, conserve water resources, and lower your utility bills.

2. Use of Natural Products

Natural products can be used in the garden to create a habitat for beneficial insects, optimal soil conditions, and a natural look. Not sure where to start? Try these tips:

Composting

Composting involves decomposing organic matter into nutrient-rich compost, benefiting soil health and waste reduction. Getting started with composting is as simple as:

Layering organic materials in a compost bin or pile.
Mixing of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials.
Turning the compost regularly to aerate it and speed up decomposition.

With time, you’ll have nutrient-rich compost to enrich your garden soil. Composting offers several benefits, including improved soil structure, increased water retention, and reduced need for chemical fertilizers. Additionally, it diverts organic waste from landfills, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Natural Pest Control

Natural pest control methods utilize beneficial insects and homemade sprays to manage garden pests without chemicals. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Attract beneficial insects by planting diverse, pollinator-friendly flowers and herbs.
Implement companion planting strategies to deter pests and boost plant health naturally.

Natural pest control reduces harm to beneficial insects and wildlife while effectively managing pest populations. It also minimizes chemical exposure for gardeners and promotes safer, healthier plants.

3. Plant Selection and Garden Design

One simple swap that can greatly impact sustainability is making the most of what you already have. Considering that, you’ll want to consider plant selection and garden design.

Native Planting

Native plants naturally occur and have adapted to local conditions, requiring less maintenance than non-native species. To create a low-maintenance garden, choose native plants that thrive in your region and are well-suited to local weather and soil conditions.

Native plants conserve water, reduce chemical inputs, and provide habitat for local wildlife. They enhance biodiversity and ecosystem resilience, contributing to overall ecosystem health.

Permeable Pavers

Permeable Pavers allow water to pass through in-between the pavers, reducing runoff and letting the water soak back into your soil. Anytime runoff (which can wash erosion and chemicals into lakes, rivers, and streams) is prevented, it contributes to a healthier environment. Many municipalities, especially in lakeshore communities, are requiring permeable pavers and limited hardscapes to help keep our lakes clean.

Bioswales & Rain Gardens

Designing a simple bioswale or rain garden to catch runoff or enhance an area with a drainage issue is also a benefit to the environment. Although they do require maintenance, like any landscape bed, the benefits of a rain garden can outweigh the work.

These systems allow water to accumulate in areas, filter down through the roots of native plants, and back into your yard. They can be quite attractive. In addition to conserving water, they are great places for beneficial birds and insects to visit.

Embracing Sustainable Gardening with American Landscape

As we strive to create more sustainable gardens, remember that every small change can make a big difference. By incorporating practices like drip irrigation, composting, and native plant selection, we not only enhance the beauty of our outdoor spaces but also contribute to the health of our environment.

Let’s continue this journey towards sustainability. American Landscape stands ready to assist those seeking expert guidance and support. Whether it’s designing eco-friendly landscapes or providing sustainable gardening solutions, our team at American Landscape is here to help you cultivate greener, more sustainable gardens.

Contact us today to get started!

10 Native Plants Perfect for Your Southeastern Wisconsin Landscape

May 29, 2024/in Sustainable Landscaping, Flower care/by Mary Monday

Integrating native plants into your residential landscape offers a myriad of benefits beyond mere aesthetics. Native plants are naturally adapted to the local environment, requiring less water, fertilizer, and pesticides, which translates to lower maintenance and reduced costs. Their deep root systems help prevent soil erosion and promote water infiltration, contributing to healthier soil and improved drainage.

Native plants also provide crucial habitat and food sources for local wildlife, fostering biodiversity and supporting pollinators like bees and butterflies. By choosing native plants, you not only create a beautiful and sustainable landscape but also play a vital role in preserving the natural heritage of our region.

Let’s explore 10 native beauties that are sure to elevate your outdoor space.

Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea): A classic favorite, this striking perennial boasts vibrant purple blooms that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding life and color to your garden beds.
Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum): Delicate pink flowers give way to wispy seed heads resembling plumes of smoke, making this plant a unique and eye-catching addition to any landscape.
Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa): Also known as bee balm, this aromatic herb produces clusters of lavender-pink flowers that not only smell delightful but also attract a myriad of pollinators, including hummingbirds. Be sure to plant this where it can spread!
Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta): With its cheerful golden-yellow petals and dark centers, the black-eyed Susan adds a pop of sunshine to gardens and provides food for birds and butterflies. This plant is best for a wild garden as it reproduces by seeding and each year will come up in a new place.
New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae): Fall wouldn’t be complete without the splash of purple, pink, or blue provided by the New England aster. These late-blooming beauties are essential for sustaining pollinators as summer transitions to autumn.
Wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis): Elegant red and yellow flowers with distinctive spurred petals grace this native perennial, attracting hummingbirds and adding a touch of grace to shady spots. Like other natives, this plant likes to grow from seed and will move around your garden, popping up in the most unusual places. It’s a wonderful surprise each spring to see where you’ll find them.
Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum): As its name suggests, boneset was historically used for medicinal purposes, but today it’s valued for its clusters of white flowers that brighten up moist areas in your landscape. This is absolutely adored by butterflies. It does get quite tall but there are shorter cultivars on the market that might be better suited to your space.
Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii): Looking to add some height and texture to your garden? Look no further than big bluestem. This tall, native grass sports attractive blue-green foliage that turns a stunning bronze in the fall.
Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica): Bring a touch of woodland magic to your garden with the delicate pink buds that unfurl into clusters of sky-blue flowers in the spring, creating a captivating carpet of color. These do go dormant in the summer so interplant them with another native to fill the space once summer rolls around.
Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense): Perfect for shaded areas, wild ginger’s heart-shaped leaves and unusual maroon flowers add a subtle elegance to woodland gardens, all while providing habitat for native wildlife.

By incorporating these native plants into your landscape, not only will you enhance the beauty of your outdoor space, but you’ll also support the local ecosystem and reduce the need for excessive maintenance and watering.

So, why not go native and create a sustainable haven right in your own backyard? Our landscape designers are experts at creating beautiful and sustainable landscapes and can help you incorporate native plants into your landscape. Give us a call at (262)252-4260 or complete a contact form to get started.

Grow a Garden That Gives Back to Wisconsin Pollinators

April 15, 2024/in Company News, Landscape Design, Sustainable Landscaping/by Mary Monday

Every spring, we look forward to seeing our gardens come to life after a harsh winter – and while we can take every step to prepare our gardens, we need the support of some important key players to ensure our gardens thrive: our Wisconsin pollinators!

Pollinators are a critical part of our ecosystem and contribute to the overall health of our environment. Unfortunately, due to habitat loss, degradation of natural resources, and the introduction of invasive species, our local pollinators need help.

The good news? There are many ways to help our Wisconsin pollinators thrive! Here’s what you need to know to get started.

The Plight of Wisconsin Pollinators

In Wisconsin, we have more than 400 species of native pollinators, including:

Bee Species
Beetles
Butterflies
Flower Flies
Hummingbirds
Moths
Wasps

They play a vital role in helping us maintain our local gardens, and our local ecosystem relies on them for survival as well.

Understanding Pollinators and Their Role

Pollinators are essential to both natural ecosystems and agricultural systems, with over 85% of the world’s flowering plants and more than two-thirds of global crop species relying on them for reproduction.

Our Wisconsin pollinators transfer pollen from the male parts of a flower to the female parts of the same or another flower, helping plants reproduce. This increases biodiversity and promotes the regeneration of plants and trees, helping to ensure that our local ecosystems remain healthy and vibrant.

They also help improve crop yields and quality, making them a valuable resource for farmers and gardeners.

Challenges Facing Local Pollinator Populations

Wisconsin’s pollinators are facing some tough times. They need our help to overcome the obstacles that put their survival at risk, some of the most detrimental of which include:

Habitat Loss: Our buzzing friends are losing their homes. Development and farming practices are taking away the wild spaces pollinators need for food and shelter.
Pesticides: While aiming to keep crops safe from pests, these chemicals can also harm the pollinators we rely on. Even small amounts can harm their ability to find food and reproduce.
Climate Change Impacts: Changing climates mess with the timing of flower blooming and pollinator activity, making it hard for them to do their job. Plus, extreme weather can wipe out the plants they depend on.

With the challenges facing Wisconsin pollinators, conservation efforts have never been more important. Creating pollinator-friendly environments, reducing pesticide use, and supporting ecological research are critical steps in safeguarding pollinator populations. Conservation helps pollinators and secures the future of our agricultural productivity and environmental health.

How to Create a Pollinator-Friendly Garden

Creating a pollinator-friendly garden is a rewarding way to contribute to the well-being of Wisconsin’s pollinator populations. By understanding the needs of these vital creatures and making thoughtful choices about plant selection and garden design, you can create a sanctuary that looks beautiful and provides crucial support for pollinators.

Here’s how to start planning and preparing your garden to become a haven for these essential species.

Plan Your Garden for Pollinators

By thoughtfully planning your garden, you can create a welcoming environment for pollinators that will help to ensure their survival and the health of your local ecosystem. Here are three important steps to get you started:

Choose the Right Location: Select a spot in your yard that receives ample sunlight since most pollinator-friendly plants thrive in sunny conditions. Ensure the area is protected from strong winds that can hinder pollinators, and consider its visibility so that visitors can enjoy the beauty of the visiting pollinators. Having evergreens and dense shrubs nearby for pollinators to hide from predators; it makes a big difference in increasing the diversity of species you can attract.
Design Your Garden Layout: When designing your garden, aim for a variety of plant types to attract various pollinators. Group similar flowers together to create a “target” for pollinators to find easily. Include plants of varying heights to add layers and make the space more appealing.
Prepare the Soil: Healthy soil is the foundation of any thriving garden. Test your soil to determine its type and nutrient content, then amend it accordingly with organic matter to improve its fertility and drainage. Avoid chemical fertilizers and pesticides that can harm pollinators.

Select the Right Plants

Selecting the right plants is a key step in creating a pollinator-friendly garden. Native plants are typically the best choice, as they have evolved alongside local pollinators and are well-suited to meet their needs. Here are some native plants that are known to benefit Wisconsin pollinators:

Milkweed (Asclepias spp.): Essential for monarch butterflies as it’s the only plant on which they will lay their eggs.
Liatris: The native Liatris ligulistylis is a monarch magnet and one of their favorite food sources.
Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea): Attracts a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa): Known for its fragrant leaves and flowers, it’s popular with hummingbirds and bees.
Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum): A tall plant that’s a favorite of butterflies and bees.
New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae): Provides late-season nectar for bees and butterflies.
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.): Supports a wide range of pollinators and blooms in late summer and fall.

It’s also important to consider the timing of plant blooming to ensure a continuous food supply. Pollinators need to access nectar and pollen throughout their active seasons:

Early bloomers: Include plants like pussy willow (Salix discolor), forsythia (Forsythia sp.) and Cornelian Cherry dogwood (Cornus mas) to provide food sources as early as possible in the season.
Mid-season bloomers: Liatris, Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) and bee balm (Monarda didyma) will keep your garden buzzing during summer.
Late bloomers: Asters and goldenrod (Solidago spp.) will sustain pollinators into the fall.
Our native grasses such as Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scopularia) and Switch Grass (Panicum virgatum) provide season-long interest, food for pollinators AND the birds love to snack on their seeds over winter.
There are many other native trees and shrubs that are also important for pollinators. Maples, birches, oaks, chokeberry, hemlock and white pine are all important hosts for our friends.

By incorporating a variety of native plants that bloom at different times, you can create a garden that’s not only vibrant and beautiful but also a vital resource for Wisconsin pollinators year-round.

Best Practices for a Thriving Habitat

Creating a sanctuary for pollinators goes beyond planting the right flowers. It involves adopting a gardening approach that ensures these beneficial creatures’ safety and health. By making conscious choices in how we care for our gardens, we can create a space that’s not only a haven for pollinators but also a place where they can thrive.

Safe Gardening Practices

Before we reach for the trowel, it’s important to consider the broader impact of our gardening practices. Here are some ways to create a garden that’s a safe haven for pollinators:

Organic Gardening Tips: Embrace your garden’s natural balance. Using organic methods helps maintain a healthy ecosystem, which benefits pollinators and plants.
Alternatives to Harmful Chemicals: Chemical pesticides can unintentionally harm pollinators. Fortunately, many natural alternatives can help keep your garden pest-free without placing pollinators at risk.
Providing Shelters and Water Sources: Like any other living creature, pollinators need places to rest and resources to survive. Creating shelters and water sources in your garden can make a huge difference in their ability to thrive.

Ongoing Garden Maintenance

Maintaining a pollinator-friendly garden is an ongoing commitment. It’s about nurturing the garden throughout the seasons and ensuring that it remains a conducive environment for pollinators:

Seasonal Care Tips: A well-timed gardening regimen can help ensure that your garden provides a continuous supply of resources for pollinators throughout the year.
Encouraging Natural Predators: A healthy garden ecosystem includes predators that naturally manage pest populations. Encouraging these natural allies can help you maintain the balance without resorting to harmful chemicals.

By prioritizing safe gardening practices and ongoing maintenance, you’ll be doing your part to protect pollinators and support the local ecosystem. These small, thoughtful actions can make all the difference in creating a thriving habitat for our vital pollinator friends.

Create the Perfect Wisconsin Pollinator Garden with American Landscape

If you’re thinking about giving your garden a makeover to help out the local pollinators, having a professional landscaping team by your side can really pay off. They’ve got the know-how to create a space that’s a buzzing hub for bees and butterflies and a charming spot for you to relax and take in the beauty.

With American Landscape, you get that personal touch. They’ll work with you to figure out exactly what your piece of the great outdoors needs to become a pollinator paradise. They’ve got a track record of setting up gardens across Wisconsin that not only meet the needs of the local wildlife but are also a delight for the eyes.

Choosing American Landscape means you’re not just planting any old garden. You’re crafting a bespoke retreat for pollinators that’ll make your yard the talk of the town.

Need help creating a Wisconsin pollinator’s paradise? Contact American Landscape today