Kids and Conservation in your Backyard

This family with young children moved into a house with a large back yard.  Though sunny, large and level, the space was not as inviting as it could be.

A master plan was created for the back yard and the landscape elements were phased-in. During the design process, the property was identified as a candidate for DC’s RiverSmart Homes Program. The homeowners filled out the on-line application and waited their turn for an audit.  In the meantime, a rain garden was included in the design for the back yard. (Montgomery County has Rainscapes Program)

The patio was expanded so that the family could enjoy meals outdoors with friends and family.  Once construction was completed, the garden could be planted.  A rain garden was seamlessly incorporated into a long planting bed on the west side of the property. A rain barrel was added to collect roof water to water the garden.

A “Pebble Pond” surrounded by large stones was placed underneath the branches extending from a neighboring maple tree.  It has been the destination of choice when the children play in the yard.

Many native plants found a home in this space.  Casey Trees planted a Nyssa sylvatica (Black Gum) and Cladrastis kentukea (Yellowwood). The children spent many hours catching and releasing butterflies attracted to the flowering perennials. Birds such as Goldfinches seemed to enjoy sharing the yard with the children.

Our landscape design-installation work includes creating all kinds of outdoor living spaces for year-round interest.  We strive to enrich the natural environment and foster stewardship for sustaining our natural resources, www.Johnshorblandscaping.com