At Cedarwood, we believe a beautiful property and an environmentally responsible one can go hand-in-hand. Whether you’re managing a large estate or refining your home garden, sustainable practices don’t have to be complicated or expensive. Small changes can lead to healthier soil, better plant performance, and long-term benefits for your property and our shared earth.
Here are five practical ways to make your landscape more eco-friendly, starting today!
Whenever practical, choose Native Plants
Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, which means they require less water, fewer chemicals, and less maintenance overall. They also support native pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects.
At Cedarwood, we often incorporate native species into our designs to balance aesthetic goals with ecological value.
Reduce Turf Areas
Lawns are high-maintenance and water-intensive, especially during hot New Jersey summers. Reducing turf in favor of groundcovers, native grasses, or mulched planting beds can dramatically cut down on irrigation needs and chemical use.
Not ready to remove your lawn completely? Start by converting edges or slopes into planting beds or low-maintenance areas.
Mulch Wisely
Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature, but it’s more than a finishing touch. By using the right type of mulch, preferably natural and undyed, you’re contributing to the soil’s health as it breaks down.
We recommend applying mulch in a one- to three-inch layer and refreshing it only as needed to protect plant roots, minimize water loss, and naturally improve the health of your soil.
Rethink Irrigation
Water is one of the most valuable resources in any landscape. Installing smart irrigation systems and adjusting watering schedules based on plant needs and seasonal changes can dramatically reduce waste.
For new installations, we often design with water efficiency in mind, grouping plants with similar water needs and using drip irrigation whenever practical.
Avoid Excessive Chemical Use
Over-relying on fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides can damage soil biology and affect surrounding ecosystems. A healthier landscape starts with healthier soil. That means focusing on organic amendments, compost, and proper plant selection over chemical solutions.
Our maintenance programs prioritize soil health, proactive care, and sustainable practices that benefit both the landscape and the people who enjoy it.
Let’s Build Something Better—Together
Eco-friendly landscaping doesn’t mean compromising on quality or beauty. It means making thoughtful choices that result in healthier plants, lower maintenance, and a stronger connection to the land.
Whether you’re starting fresh or looking to improve an existing space, Cedarwood Landscaping is here to help you build a landscape that works for you—and for the environment.
Ready to take a sustainable step forward?