Curb appeal and sustainability have historically felt at odds with each other. The front yard beauty standard for so long being a perfectly manicured green lawns with an impermeable driveways and sparse vegetation. But now, especially in the PNW, we are seeing a pull away from the white picket fence norm and seeing yards that have a more sustainable footprint. Yards filled with bright flowers, rain barrels, native grasses and more! Read on for some of our favorite ways to go green that have nothing to do with a grass lawn.
Native Landscaping
Opt for native plants in your landscaping design. Native plants are well-suited to the local climate and require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance. This means they are going to keep your yard looking fresh and be far lower maintenance than a traditional grass lawn. They also provide a habitat for local wildlife and promote biodiversity. Please refer to our blog post Gardening With A Purpose: 10 Keystone Plants to Elevate Biodiversity and Support Local Ecosystems for your native plant inspiration .
Rainwater Harvesting
Install a rainwater harvesting system to collect rainwater from your roof. Use this water for irrigation purposes, reducing the need for freshwater consumption. Rain barrels or larger cisterns can be integrated seamlessly into your landscape design. You can also use natural landscaping to create rain water basins in your yard, or even set up your downspouts to drain toward a desired garden patch (make sure it’s sloping away from your foundation!).
Permeable Pavers
Consider using permeable pavers for your driveways, walkways, and patio areas. These pavers allow rainwater to permeate through the surface, replenishing the groundwater and reducing stormwater runoff. And not only that but there are so many choices that this can be a great way to add some personality to your space without the adding chore of yard maintenance or watering.
Green Fences
Did you know you have the option to choose sustainable fencing materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, or recycled plastic for your fence? Instead of cedar or chain link consider going green with your fencing materials. These options reduce the demand for new materials and add a touch of eco-consciousness to your home. Green fences not only enhance the aesthetics of your property but also serve as a tangible symbol of your commitment to sustainability.
Energy-Efficient Lighting
Replace traditional outdoor lighting with energy-efficient LED fixtures. LED lights consume significantly less energy, last longer, and emit a more focused and natural light. Enjoy the long-lasting performance and cost savings that come with LED technology, while also ensuring that your outdoor areas are well-lit whenever you need them, enhancing safety and security.
Vertical Gardens
Maximize your outdoor space by incorporating vertical gardens. Ideal for small yards, balconies, or urban settings where horizontal space may be limited. These gardens utilize vertical wall space to grow plants, adding beauty, reducing heat absorption, and improving air quality. So even if you don’t have a big yard to fill with plants you can still make an impact.
Water-Efficient Irrigation
Implement water-efficient irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation or smart sprinklers. These technologies provide precise watering and minimize water waste. They can also be controlled remotely through mobile apps, allowing homeowners to conveniently monitor and adjust their irrigation settings from anywhere, saving both time and water resources.
Eco-Friendly Outdoor Furniture
Choose eco-friendly and sustainable materials for your outdoor furniture, such as reclaimed wood, bamboo, or recycled plastic. Avoid furniture treated with toxic chemicals and opt for environmentally friendly cushions and upholstery. These conscious choices help reduce deforestation, minimize waste, and limit the release of harmful chemicals into the environment. You can go one step further by opting for used patio furniture, use facebook market place, offer up, neighborhood groups or local thrift shops. You might be surprised at the great deals out there for practically new pieces!
By implementing these green initiatives, you can transform your home’s exteriors into an eco-friendly and sustainable haven. From native landscaping to vertical gardens and rainwater harvesting, these practices not only contribute to a greener environment but also enhance the overall beauty and functionality of your home. Which of these ideas are you mostly likely to utilize in your yard? Let us know in the comments!
PNW Real Estate Blog 
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