This article was written and submitted by Matt Davenport of Monarch
Environmental, Inc.
I’ve learned if you have the right people in the right places doing the right things, you can be successful at whatever you do.” Te same can be said about landscape. If the right plants are planted in the right area with the right amount of water, then success is more likely.
Tere are several factors to consider when refur- bishing your community landscape. First and foremost, assess the irrigation system for breaks, spacing, efficiencies and opportunities. Te irri- gation system will be key in setting future plant- ing up for success. Future water savings may pay for the renovation in less than 5 years.
Second, plant choice is critical for both form and function. We often plant for form but don’t consider the long-term functionality of the cho- sen material. Function should be considered a priority followed closely by form. You may have noticed landscape line items rising at an alarm- ing rate. Here’s why - water rates have doubled, material costs have increased 25-50%, as well as the cost to run a company. Te increase in labor cost must be considered when it comes to plant choice. Labor-intensive plants have higher
16 | January / February 2018
PLANT FOR THE LONG TERM H
all of Fame Dallas Cowboys quarter- back, Roger Staubach, said, “I have a lot to learn about NASCAR. But
long-term costs for consumers. Plant growth rates drive labor and if plants are chosen soley on the color of the flower one may be setting the community up for significant increases down the road.
Tird, considering plant size is one of the most overlooked cost saving opportunities in the industry. Larger plants have larger price tags. Many studies have been done regarding plant performance based on initial planting size. In many cases, a smaller gallon size plant will out- perform a 5 or 15 gallon plant over time. Tis is often the case with trees as well. Te smaller unit sizes will reflect better long-term perfor- mance for less money up front.
Last, appropriately spacing plants allows for the material to reach maturity without much maintenance. Proper placement will look sparse at first. However, this sparse look will soon dis- appear and the established plants will heavily reduce the need for constant thinning, shaping and labor.
When done right plant type, placement, sizing and spacing will create an efficient landscape that stabilizes cost over time while adding beau- ty and value to your community.
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36