Earth Day: Landscaping Design for Tampa Bay Homes

By Lana Bingham

Earth Day celebrates an environmental movement and sparks human desire to “Do Good” for planet earth.  How will you make a contribution this year? Plant a tree? Remove litter and trash from roadways? Or what about building a new custom home?

So, how on earth do home builders give back to Mother Nature?

Plan Before you Plant – New homes bring new landscaping, with trees, plants and ground-covers meeting fresh soil. Plants are selected to customize and compliment the theme of the home that is being built, as a Mediterranean style home pairs well with palms, a traditional style can be adorned with Elms or grand Oaks. Before landscaping can take place, the builder must take into consideration: light exposure, temperature range, soil type, drainage capability, and the location of underground utilities.

Functional Flora – Since new homes in Tampa experience a tropical climate, landscaping helps to create an efficient environment. Only Florida native or suitable non-native plants should be selected for landscaping. Plants that have a high tolerance to draught and cold while also being shade resistant are most practical. Bird of Paradise and Crotons are known for their Florida-style climate control capabilities.

Minimal Maintenance – Tampa builders know the importance of yard maintenance, but strive to make it pleasant and low-impact for homeowners.  Only healthy and high-quality plants should be selected and they should receive appropriate fertilization methods. To conserve water, new homes are often built with rain-sensing sprinkler systems.  Also, pests should be properly prevented by using products that are safe for the environment. This will ensure that water runoff will not pose a threat to our waterways.

It is easy to see why Mother Nature appreciates new custom homes. A well-designed landscape will not only create pleasing aesthetics and functionality for your home, but it will also give back to the environment. So next time you spot new home builders Tampa in your neighborhood, be thankful for their contribution to a cleaner and greener earth.

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