Introduction
Create a General Landscape Plan
Complete a Thorough Site Analysis
Define Planting Areas
Principles of Design
Elements of Design
Plant Selection
Installation
Landscaping With Native Plans
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Photo courtesy of Desert Water Agency
There is a positive trend to establish part of the landscape with a native theme.
The goals of this type of landscaping are myriad, including water conservation,
reduced maintenance, attraction of wildlife, uniqueness, and expression of personal
creativity. Regardless of the reasons, native landscapes can be beautiful and
effective if designed and completed properly. Here are some guidelines that will
help you successfully design and establish a native landscape. They closely resemble
the steps for establishing a traditional landscape, but differ in a few important
aspects such as plant materials and maintenance planning.
- Complete a yard survey and map the existing landscape. Note problem areas
that are difficult to manage and may be appropriate for native landscapes.
- Determine the areas to be planted using native or water conservation materials.
It is not necessary or desirable to make an entire landscape native. Some areas
should be more traditional with good shade, turf for recreation, leisure areas,
and flower beds for consistent color. However, the location of native plantings
will determine much of the design. Areas removed from public scrutiny, such as
property corners and large back yards, can remain informal and will have less
demand for maintenance. Native plantings in public areas, such as around the house
entrance, can be as pleasing as traditional landscapes, but will require a more
elaborate design.
- Design the native planting areas in such a way that they provide continuity
and flow with the rest of the landscape. Zone the irrigation system to meet the
needs of the native plants. Some areas may need less water if xeriscape principles
are followed, while other areas (such as water features and lowland plantings)
may actually need more water. Recognize that if a native planting is designed
for low water use, it may be necessary to add landscape features other than plants,
such as rocks or wood objects to maintain season-long interest, color, and texture.
- Choose plant materials that will provide balance, color, line, and movement
and complement the rest of the landscape while at the same time meeting the goals
of the design. Carefully consider transition zones between traditional and native
components of the landscape and avoid sudden shifts in plant type. Carefully consider
the mature size of all plant materials and arrange plantings accordingly. Do not
mix plants with vastly different water or maintenance needs.
- Once the design is complete, install the new landscape using procedures outlined
in the section above. In the case of a water-conserving landscape, remember that
newly established plants are not especially drought tolerant for the first season
and may need some supplemental water for several months.
There are some outstanding publications available on-line that provide detailed
instructions for establishing a native landscape. Here are a few of the best that
are appropriate for Idaho:
Utah State University provides an excellent instruction manual for planning, designing, and establishing native plant landscape. See this guide, at:
http://extension.usu.edu/files/publications/publication/EC_458.pdf .
 The Bureau of Land Management published and internet document entitled, "Landscaping with Native Plants of the Intermountain Region". It serves as an excellent native plant selection guide, complete with pictures, and also contains information about sources for native plants. See this document, at:
http://www.id.blm.gov/publications/TR1730-3/index.htm
Lamar Orton has prepared a list of drought tolerant plants useful for landscaping in southern Idaho. Link to this site, at: www.tfid.org/hot_topics.
Several photographs utilized in this discussion of landscaping were supplied courtesy of Gizmo Creations, LLC, Merrifeld, Minnesota: www.gizmocreations.com/photo.html.
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