For many companies, green spaces are the first target for sustainability initiatives. Planting more trees, being mindful of which types of plants and flowers are native to the area and reconsidering how often to water plants and turf are simple steps that can be taken to reduce environmental impact. Tracking and reporting these initiatives can add up to significant green improvements for a corporate responsibility program.
If you want to upgrade your landscape areas while keeping up with your business’s sustainability goals, native species are the best option. Not only do they help pollinators and other natural habitats, but they are also already uniquely adapted to the region.
Native plants offer a variety of benefits. They typically require less water than non-native species, demand less pruning and routine maintenance, and don’t require the use of pesticides since they are usually deer and pest resistant.
Because native plants thrive in their natural habitats, different species perform best in different regions or hardiness zones.
Here are some suggestions for low-maintenance plants based on major U.S. regions:
Northeast
- Bottle Brush Buckeye (Aesculus parviflora)
- Witchhazel (Hamamelis)
- Winterberry (Ilex verticillata)
- Swamp Azalea (Rhododendron viscosum)
- Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Midwest
- Wild geranium (Geranium maculatum)
- Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa)
- Bee Balm (Monarda didyma)
- Red-osier Dogwood (Cornus sericea)
- Clethra (Clethra alnifolia)
Southeast
- Dwarf Yaupon Holly (Ilex schilling)
- Parsoni Juniper (Juniperus squamata expansa 'Parsonii’)
- Boxwood (Buxus)
- Blanket Flower (Gaillardia)
- Pentas (Pentas lonceolata)
West
- Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus alba ‘Sibirica’)
- Juniper Blue star (Juniperus squamata)
- Fern bush (Chamaebatiaria millefolium)
- Milkweed (Asclepias)
- Common Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Southwest
- Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergii)
- Mojave sage (Salvia pachyphylla)
- Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis indica)
- California Aster (Corethrogyne filaginifolia)
- Sea Lavender (Limonium)
Davey experts understand the importance of creating a landscape that reflects and builds on your business’ sustainability goals.
To Learn How We Can Help With Planning, Planting & More, Contact Your Local Davey Office.
