Landscape Design Checklist

Pollution Prevention

'Grasscycle' as often as possible.

Reduce fertilizer and pesticide runoff.

Phase out the scheduled application of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.

Use environmentally-sound fertilizing practices.

Reduce potential pest problems by planting a variety of species.

Limit habitat and breeding areas for rodents, mosquitoes, and flies.

Use natural herbicides and beneficial nematodes.

Use climate appropriate, hardy, pest-resistant plants.

Spray compost tea for disease management and nutrient cycling.

Change chemical spaying frequency from periodic to 'as required'.

Use proper pruning technique.

Keep gas mowers well-tuned and in good repair.

Schedule excavation and grading projects for the dry weather season.

Waste Reduction

Incorporate into design the protection of established trees and native soils.

Space plants properly.

Use plants that will not grow too large for their space.

Use trees and shrubs that do not require frequent shearing.

Plant species that are appropriate for the microclimates.

Do not use invasive plant species.

Save soil for use at a different site.

Water Conservation

Use low and medium water use plants.

Use hydrozoning - group plants with similar water needs on the same irrigation valve.

Use mulch in all non-turf planted areas.

Use design elements that prevent water run off.

Use professionally certified irrigation technicians and/or landscape water managers to install the irrigation system.

Install drip irrigation systems.

Use reclaimed water for irrigation.

Install rain shut-off devices.

Install irrigation controllers.