Outdated and Trending Landscape Products
Trends in Landscaping
Yes, believe it or not, there are indeed trends in landscaping that evolve over time. Just like in other fields, these trends shape the way modern landscapers perceive and design outdoor spaces. When professionals encounter a garden, they can quickly discern whether its design is traditional and timeless or outdated and less appealing.
While trends may come and go, some plants stand the test of time and remain timeless classics that are perpetually favored in landscapes. These enduring plants continue to add beauty and sophistication to outdoor spaces, transcending passing trends with their appeal. It is the aesthetic of the landscapes which perpetuates the outdated or timeless.
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Dyed Mulches
Mulch is a blend of processed wood varying in thickness, ranging from large bark chunks to finely shaved wood. Often, wood lacking in natural color post-processing is dyed in hues like black, brown, and red. The dye is noticeable upon application as it can stain hands. In the northeast region, red and black dyed mulches are seen everywhere. However, dyed mulches are commonly crafted from recycled wood waste such as old hardwood pallets, decking, demolished structures, or even pressure treated CCA wood (with CCA representing Chromium, Copper, and Arsenic). It is essential to note that dyed mulch often does not readily decompose to enhance the soil. In many cases, it leads to soil contamination, compounded by dye leaching into the soil. This leaching can harm beneficial soil organisms like bacteria, earthworms, insects, and in certain instances, even plants themselves.
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All Natural Mulch/Compost
Organic or all-natural wood mulch and compost are excellent choices to enhance the health of your garden and promote plant growth. Both options provide numerous benefits, such as retaining moisture, suppressing weeds, and improving soil structure.
If you prefer the visually striking dark appearance of black-dyed mulch, incorporating compost into your gardening routine can be a fantastic complement. Not only does compost enrich the soil with essential nutrients, but it also fosters a healthy soil microbiome.
The plant-soil microbiome consists of a diverse group of microorganisms, including bacteria, archaea, and fungi. This community plays a crucial role in supporting plant health and overall soil fertility. By using organic wood mulch and compost, you can help create a thriving environment for beneficial microorganisms to flourish, leading to improved plant growth and yield in your garden.
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Yard Fabric
Yard fabric is often used to suppress weeds and keep landscapes tidy. However, it can hinder the natural process of soil enrichment and root development. The fabric prevents essential elements like compost and mulch from reaching the soil, limiting its ability to thrive. Moreover, watering on top of yard fabric may not effectively seep through to the root zone, impacting plant health.
In addition, yard fabric can lead to soil compaction and restrict airflow, which are vital for root systems to receive oxygen. Plant roots typically extend within the top 6 inches of the soil, making it crucial for them to access nutrients and air. The use of yard fabric may not support the long-term vitality of plants as it inhibits these essential processes.
Considering these factors, yard fabric is counterproductive and not environmentally friendly due to its limited benefits and potential drawbacks in garden beds.
Note: Yard fabric serves a specific purpose when used for drip edges with stone on top. Its primary function is to prevent soil from leaching through the stones, maintaining the integrity of the landscaping design. Additionally, the fabric can aid in controlling some weed growth, contributing to a more visually appealing and low-maintenance outdoor space. By strategically incorporating yard fabric in this manner, you can enhance the longevity and aesthetics of your landscape features.
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Cottage Gardens
Cottage gardening offers a charming and low-maintenance approach to landscaping by creating dense borders of perennials that not only add beauty but also help in naturally crowding out weeds. The key to achieving this delightful crowded look lies in selecting plants that can spread and fill the space over time.
Plants like Bee Balm (Monarda), Black Eyed Susans (Rudbeckia), Joe Pye Weed (Eupatorium), Phlox, and Cranesbill (Geranium) are popular choices for cottage gardens due to their ability to thrive in such settings. These plants not only bring vibrant colors and textures to the garden but also work harmoniously to create a picturesque and effortless landscape.
By carefully choosing the right combination of spreading perennials, cottage gardening enthusiasts can enjoy a beautiful, low-maintenance garden that evolves naturally over the seasons, providing a sanctuary of relaxation and beauty.
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Exotic Plants that are Invasive
Disclaimer: These are plants that have been announced as invasive via the USDA Invasive Plants list due to lack of knowledge of their growth pattern and harm to the ecological regions they were planted in. Most Nurseries on the state level will not sell these Invasive Plants to homeowners or professionals.
In recent decades, the transformation of certain prized ornamental plants into invasive species has raised concerns among landscapers, homeowners, and gardeners. One notable example is the Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus) in the Northeastern United States. Originally introduced in the 1860s for its stunning autumnal ruby red foliage, this shrub captured the hearts of many with its visual appeal.
However, by the 1970s, alarm bells began to ring as the Burning Bush started encroaching beyond its designated cultivation areas and establishing itself in wooded regions, disrupting the delicate balance of native ecosystems. The realization of its invasive nature led to decisive action, with Massachusetts officially declaring the Burning Bush as invasive in 2005. Subsequent measures were implemented, including the banning of its importation and propagation in 2009.
This cautionary tale serves as a reminder of the importance of assessing the long-term impact of introducing exotic plants into new environments. What may initially dazzle with beauty could ultimately pose threats to biodiversity and ecological stability, underscoring the need for informed landscaping practices and vigilance in plant selection.
Other invasives to note that are still seen in landscapes today: Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans), Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica and frangula) Honeysuckle Bush (Lonicera species) Japanese Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonicus) Norway Maple (Acer platanoides) and Periwinkle (Vinca minor and major).
For more information on the rest of Invasive Plant Species, click the link below. USDA Farm Service Agency.
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Native Perennials/Pollinating Plants
The cautionary tale of non-native species becoming invasive highlights the importance of mindful plant selection. However, amidst these challenges, there is a growing interest and hope for a new era of awareness surrounding native plants.
Native plants, defined as perennials, shrubs, and trees that naturally occur in a specific ecological region, offer a sustainable and balanced approach to landscaping. By choosing native species, gardeners can support local ecosystems, promote biodiversity, and reduce the need for excessive maintenance.
Planting native species is a smart choice for low-maintenance landscaping. Natives are well-suited to thrive in their particular environment, which often means they require minimal intervention once established. By selecting native plants that are well-suited to your specific location, you are essentially choosing the right plant for the right area. This not only helps in reducing the need for extensive upkeep but also promotes a more sustainable and harmonious landscape. A variety of native plants in your landscape not only enhances its beauty but also provides numerous benefits to the local ecosystem. One significant advantage is the support it offers to local pollinators and insect species. Native plants attract a diverse array of beneficial insects and pollinators, creating a healthier environment for these essential creatures to thrive. By incorporating native plants into your landscape, you are contributing to the conservation of local wildlife and helping to maintain a balanced ecosystem in your area.
