With the growing urbanisation of our world, commercial landscapes are essential in shaping our environment. Traditional landscaping projects are known for creating beautiful and aesthetic spaces, however there has been a lack of consideration for wildlife and ecological factors in many projects. Ignoring ecology when it comes to landscaping can lead to a decline in biodiversity and a loss of vital ecosystems. Our blog is here to explore wildlife-friendly commercial landscaping, discussing how businesses can create vibrant green spaces that not only enhance their properties but also contribute to a healthier planet. To learn more about these techniques, and the importance of wildlife preservation in landscaping, keep on reading our article.
Commercial Landscaping Overview
Commercial landscaping is the process of designing, installing, and maintaining the outdoor areas of commercial properties. The main goal of these services is to create visually appealing, functional, and sustainable environments that enhance the property’s aesthetic. It's important for businesses to invest in proper landscaping because it can help create a more professional image and improve a customer or client's experience.
What Do Commercial Landscapers Do?
Commercial landscapers offer a wide range of services, from design and installation to specialised maintenance tasks. We’ve broken down some of their key responsibilities below.
Landscape Design
● Site Analysis - Landscapers may assess your property to better understand soil conditions, drainage, sunlight, and how the space can be used.
● Concept Development - Landscapers can help you create custom designs that meet your goals and aesthetic vision.
● Plant Selection - They can also help you pick out the right trees, shrubs, flowers, and ground cover that thrive in your area, and complement the landscape.
● Hardscaping Plans - They can also help you with hard landscaping choices, such as designing pathways, patios, retaining walls, and water features to blend with natural elements.
Installation
● Soil Preparation - Ensuring the soil is properly prepped for plants and trees.
● Irrigation Systems - Installing efficient irrigation and sprinkler systems.
● Planting - Installing trees, shrubs, flowers, and grass to bring your space to life!
Maintenance
● Mowing and Trimming - Regular lawn care helps to keep a neat and professional appearance.
● Fertilising and Soil Care - Applying fertilisers, aerating soil, controlling pests & diseases.
● Pruning and Tree Care - Maintaining trees and shrubs, removing dead branches and shaping your plants.
● Seasonal Clean-Up - Removing debris, fallen leaves, and preparing the area for seasonal changes.
Some landscaping services might offer more specialised services, such as erosion control and storm water management which can be useful for properties that are susceptible to weathering issues. With the correct landscaping techniques, these issues can be mitigated.
Why Is Commercial Landscaping Important?
Commercial landscaping is important for a range of reasons, and can provide a range of benefits for both the business, and individuals. Some of these benefits include:
● It can help create a positive environment for customers, staff, and residents to experience
● It can help improve a business's curb appeal
● It can help create an environment that's both inviting and professional
● It can help show potential customers that a business is well-maintained
Commercial Hard Landscaping with Wildlife in Mind
Hard landscaping needs to be carefully managed so that it isn’t harmful to surrounding wildlife. Damaging wildlife can cause serious harm to eco-systems, but using techniques that consider the surrounding area can stop this from occurring. Read below to learn more about hard commercial landscaping that considers wildlife.
● Permeable Paving - Instead of using solid concrete, landscapers can use permeable paving materials that will allow rainwater to filter back into the ground This recharges groundwater supplies and reduces runoff, creating habitats for insects and other small creatures.
● Dry Stone Walls - These structures provide shelter and nesting sites for insects, small mammals, and reptiles.
● Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) - These drainage systems have features like swales, rain gardens, and retention ponds which are integrated into the landscape. These features are able to manage stormwater runoff naturally, and also provide space for wetland creatures to thrive.
● Careful Material Selection - Landscapers should choose locally sourced and sustainable materials whenever possible to reduce the environmental impact of the project.
Soft Landscaping Techniques for Wildlife
Soft landscaping techniques use plants and natural elements to enhance your commercial space. This is especially important for wildlife, as plants and greenery provide food and space for wildlife to thrive.
● Native Plant Selection - Your landscaper will try to prioritise native plants, as they are well suited to your local area, and provide food and shelter for native wildlife. Having the right plant selection is essential for wildlife to thrive.
● Wildflower Turfing: This is a fantastic way to quickly establish diverse wildflower meadows, which provide vital nectar and pollen sources for pollinators like bees and butterflies. This is a relatively low maintenance option that provides an easy aesthetic improvement.
● Vegetation Management - Implementing sustainable vegetation management practices is also a useful technique for prioritising wildlife during landscaping projects. Avoiding harmful pesticides and herbicides is essential for this. Instead, landscapers should focus on techniques like selective pruning and mowing regimes that encourage biodiversity. Manual weeding and pruning is also key for vegetation management. Landscapers may decide to leave some areas uncut to provide habitats for wildlife.
● Creating Habitats - Features like log piles, rockeries, and bird boxes will also provide shelter and nesting spaces for creatures.
How to Approach Wildlife-Friendly Landscaping for Your Business
Assessment
Your professional team will carry out a thorough assessment to understand the existing ecological conditions and identify opportunities for improvement.
Planning and Design
Working with your landscaping team to create a landscaping plan that incorporates wildlife-friendly features and considers the needs of your space, and the local eco-system.
Maintenance
Use a long-term maintenance plan that prioritises both aesthetics and ecological health, avoiding harmful techniques.
Baylis Landscape Contractors: Commercial Landscaping & More
Embracing wildlife-friendly commercial landscaping offers a range of benefits to our plant and to businesses. By prioritising native plants, creating diverse habitats, and using sustainable practices like vegetation management and wildflower turfing, businesses can transform their outdoor spaces into thriving ecosystems. This approach not only improves the look of your commercial property, but also contributes to local biodiversity, improves water management, and shows a commitment to the environment. Investing in wildlife-friendly landscaping is an investment in a healthier planet and a more sustainable future for your business.
Here at Baylis Landscaping Contractors, we offer a range of landscaping services to help you bring your visions to life. Our team of experienced contractors will work with you to create the perfect environment for your property. From soft and hard landscaping projects to vegetation management, our team will work with you every step of the way. Head to our website to learn more, or get in touch with us to speak with our team today!
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