2024 Resolutions for Professional Landscapers

As we gear up for the new year, consider impactful resolutions to enhance sustainability. Now is a great time for landscaping professionals to prioritize changes that revolve around enhancing soil health, protecting diversity in our ecosystems, and reducing chemical dependence – all while cutting down costs. These resolutions will position landscapers as stewards of healthy, thriving landscapes in the coming year. Use Native Trees and Shrubs Planting local trees in our area not only helps the environment but also makes the trees healthier and longer lasting. Native trees and shrubs naturally have limits on how much they grow, which keeps them from taking over an area. Once these trees are settled in, they need less water because they’re used to the local weather. They are also already adapted to the soil in our region, making them an ideal choice for our landscapes.

Reduce Chemical Use

Pesticides, including insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides, are made to remove weeds, insects, rodents, and mold. These chemicals can be harmful and pose risks to people and animals, especially kids. The best way to avoid using pesticides and their harmful effects in your home and yard is by keeping pests out in the first place.

Sometimes, herbicides can accidentally damage nearby plants if applied too closely or through drifting during application. Not following the label instructions correctly can lead to plant damage, ineffective pest control, health issues, and contribute to pollution of soil, air, or water.

Make an effort to keep an eye on those product labels and minimize the use of chemicals when possible, leaving healthy spaces for the environment to flourish naturally.

Try Organic Alternatives

Opting for organic lawn care practices not only keeps harmful synthetic chemicals away from your customers’ yards and the environment but also brings about eco-friendly benefits. These products are biodegradable, harness natural resources, and curtail water pollution from runoff, easing concerns about your impact on local waterways.

While organic lawn care involves an initial investment in premium fertilizers, the long-term payoffs are evident in a healthier, low-maintenance lawn that demands fewer treatments and efforts on your part. choosing organic lawn care saves you money in the long run while alleviating the stress associated with the constant treatments and upkeep required by traditional lawn care options.

Commit to More Testing

The soil is a vibrant ecosystem, providing crucial nutrients, air, and water for the plants, lawns, and microorganisms that constitute the landscape. Maintaining the overall health of the landscape hinges on the well-being of the soil.

Despite essential factors like nutrient availability, pH balance, and organic matter content being imperceptible to the naked eye, landscape professionals rely on regular soil testing as their primary tool. The insights garnered from soil tests provide landscapers with the necessary information to tailor ornamental and turf care programs, ensuring that each landscape attains optimal health and strength.

Ensure you have a deep understanding of your customer’s soil and water, backed by science, before investments in a landscape project are made. For any questions contact Tech Terra Environmental!