GARDEN BLOG

How Does Climate Change Impact Landscaping?

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Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing humanity today. It threatens the lives and livelihoods of billions of people around the world. Changing climate is already having a significant impact on backyard habitats. Higher average temperatures are causing flowers to bloom earlier. Here are some ways in which climate change is affecting landscaping observed by landscaping services in Sonoma County.

Increasing Pest Population

The rise in average temperature has enhanced the survivability of pests. Modified precipitation patterns and rising temperatures have allowed pests to develop adaptability. A drastically increasing pest population puts turf and plants at higher risk.

Even invasive plant species such as kudzu, purple loosestrife, and garlic mustard may thrive under new conditions. Right now, coming up with new ways to combat the pest menace and keep pest populations in check tops the priority list of every landscaping company.

Warm-Season Grasses are Invading Landscapes

As temperatures rise, warm-season grasses are growing in regions where they couldn’t survive before. In winter, these grasses turn brown. Warm-season grasses compete with flowers for nutrients. Their roots creep into flower beds, making it difficult for flowers to draw essential nutrients from the soil.

Landscaping Chemicals Are Moving Around More Freely

Thanks to climate change, bigger storms have become increasingly common. Landscapers use several lawn care products in their backyards. Rainwater washes chemicals into waterways and also distributes them to other gardens. This creates new challenges for landscapers when it comes to handling landscaping chemicals.

Changing Blooming Patterns

Higher average temperatures and fluctuating precipitation patterns are causing plants to bloom sooner, creating unpredictable growing seasons and increasing the overall difficulty of maintaining landscaping.

Pollinators are Either Arriving Off-Schedule

Climate change is negatively impacting important connections between plants and pollinators. Common pollinators such as hummingbirds and bees are either arriving too early or too late to feed on plants which is having an adverse effect on both pollinators.

Climate-smart Landscaping Tips

  • Plant More Natives: Native species are known for their ability to adapt to climate change within their native environments. Native plants can handle conditions such as drought and extreme weather. They also help maintain important pollinator connections.
  • Plant Flowering Plants: Pollinator gardens benefit the ecosystem. In order to attract bees and butterflies, plant flowering plants such as milkweed, echinacea, and gaur.
  • Use Organic Landscaping Products: Avoid using harmful chemicals in your garden. To keep your backyard healthy and to eliminate weeds, use composted kitchen and garden waste.
  • Reduce Water Consumption in Your Yard: Overwatering plants can create perfect conditions for diseases to thrive. Additionally, when water runs off it will wash away essential nutrients. To prevent this from happening, switch to a smart irrigation system, mulch, and install rain barrels.

Need help with creating your dream landscape? Look no further than Gardenworks Inc. We offer top-notch landscaping services in Sonoma County. Our landscape designs combine functionality and aesthetics. For us, good is not good enough. We strive for perfection in every project. To get answers to your landscaping questions, call us at (707) 857-2050.