With the arrival of the new year, it’s time to start reflecting on the choices you’re making and if there is room for improvement. And since everything is connected to everything in the ecosystem of life, looking back on whether or not your business has been flourishing in a healthy environment is no exception.
If you’re a tree and turf care professional and want to make decisions that will benefit both you and the plants you’re working with, here are some tips.
Make a Landscape Plan
Before you really dig in, take time to research the environment you’re working in. What kind of plants and trees are native to the landscape, and how dependent is that landscape on them? How will you care for and maintain the landscape you’re changing? Are there other factors to consider, like buildings, slopes, or waterways?
Types of Groundcover
Part of your landscape plan should be choosing an appropriate type of groundcover. There are hundreds if not thousands of groundcovers on the market, from moss and vines to ornamental grasses and shrubs. There are also artificial groundcovers, popular for sports and recreation, like synthetic lawn turf.
Your decision is based on a number of variables – your planting zone, the desired growing height of this groundcover, the soil conditions you’re working with, and access to water and sunlight.
You’ll also want to consider the long-term maintenance of your groundcover. For example, you may not be as concerned with the plants you’re picking out for a walkway, but more mindful about choosing a top-quality turf that is durable and able to withstand heavy foot traffic.
Natural Products for Tree and Lawn Care
The products you are working with are equally important to the environment you’re working in. Always think about the bigger picture and keep in mind that, without education and guidance, you could be doing more harm than good.
Be aware of how much water and fertilizer is going into the ground, as well as any chemicals you’re exposing the plants to. Here are some basics tips:
- Keep your grass well-fed with compost
- Follow a fertilizer schedule
- Keep tabs on the PH level of the soil
- Use native plants that require minimal care
- Consider pollinator-friendly insecticides
Start Building Healthy Habits
If you’re in the green industry, you also know that health and safety is a major consideration when choosing the best tree and turf care. As we move further into the new year, make decisions that will help your business grow while protecting our collective environments and health.
Change doesn’t happen overnight, so it’s okay to start small or go through a period of trial-and-error. Tackle a single area with eco-friendly alternatives first to start familiarizing yourself with the landscape and building healthy habits.
Enjoy the Work You’re Doing
Last but not least, remember that landscaping is more than just a profession – it can also be a major stress reliver. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty and find enjoyment in the projects you’re doing. Once you start working with eco-friendly alternatives, you’ll find fulfillment knowing you’re doing your customers (and the world) a great service.
In the meantime, we encourage you to keep educating yourself by attending our talks, classes, and seminars, as well as reading our emails. We’re in this together!
Contact us anytime with questions at (609) 468-1905 or info@techterraenvironmental.com