Incorporating Naturalized Spaces Into Your Garden

Not everyone wants a huge, unbroken expanse of green lawn. Perhaps your children are grown and you no longer need the area for play, or you simply would like a low-maintenance, or no-maintenance garden. Many are looking for garden designs that have a less harmful effect on the environment and yet are still attractive, varied and appealing.

Some of the most stunning naturalized garden designs we’ve seen – and created – include ponds, waterfalls and an interesting mix of hard materials. The overall aesthetic is relaxed, inviting and definitely unique.

Typically, naturalized gardens mean less grass and more native plantings – more trees, shrubs, ground cover and perennial plants, which contribute to improved air quality. These gardens can also increase biodiversity, attracting insects, butterflies, birds and small animals.

Many of the plants we recommend for naturalized spaces are inherently low maintenance; they are drought-tolerant and require little attention or watering. In fact, most subsist just fine with natural rainwater. The plants are also indigenous to the local area and as such, tend to be less expensive. It’s easy to see how quickly benefits for the homeowner accrue.

Another main feature of the naturalized garden is the use of vernacular material – that is, material that has been drawn from the local geographic area. It can be used to create installations of landscape art or simply to build out different areas on the property, like water features, patios or pathways. Using stones and other materials that are native to the immediate area lends what gardeners refer to as “local distinctiveness”.

For more naturalized gardening ideas, please visit www.denbok.com or call us at 905-336-3476.