Climate-Ready Garden Design Ideas
This spring, create a garden that thrives in our ever-changing climate. These garden designs are friendly to the environment, adapt to the challenges of a changing climate and look beautiful too!
Native plant gardens are like a match made in heaven for our changing climate.
Using plants naturally occurring in your region, you’re tapping into their inherent resilience and adaptability. These plants have adapted to the local climate’s fluctuations, whether it’s intense heat, drought, or heavy rainfall. Native plants also support local ecosystems, attracting pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects.
Xeriscape gardens are designed with water conservation in mind.
They incorporate drought-tolerant plants, efficient irrigation systems, and mulching techniques to minimize water usage. Xeriscape gardens are well-suited for areas experiencing water scarcity or where water resources are becoming increasingly unpredictable due to climate change.
Food forests are a fantastic solution for a changing climate, providing sustainability and food security.
Mimicking natural ecosystems, food forests incorporate multiple layers of edible plants, from tall fruit trees to low-growing herbs. By diversifying your garden, you increase its resilience to temperature fluctuations, pests, and diseases. Food forests also promote soil health, conserve water, and reduce the carbon footprint associated with food production and transportation.
Rain gardens are nature’s way of managing excess water and preventing runoff.
These gardens feature specially designed areas that capture and filter rainwater from roofs, driveways, and other surfaces — allowing about 30% more water absorption into the ground compared to a lawn area. By directing rainwater into these gardens, you’re conserving water and preventing erosion and flooding. Choose plants that can handle both drought and heavy rain to ensure your rain garden thrives in all weather conditions.
