A Look at Some Factors Considered by a Landscape Company When Choosing Plantings in the Bennington, NE and Glenwood, IA Areas

Landscape companies carefully consider several factors and characteristics before selecting the right plantings to create a beautiful and thriving landscape. In locations like Bennington, NE and Glenwood, IA, where the climate and environmental conditions can vary, understanding these key factors becomes even more essential to ensure successful landscaping projects.

Related: 14 Low-Maintenance Plantings for Your Cornish Heights and Elkhorn, NE, Area Front Entrance

Soil Composition and pH Levels

By conducting soil tests, landscapers can determine the pH levels and nutrient content of the soil. They analyze whether the soil is sandy, loamy, or clay-based, and identify its drainage capabilities. This information helps in selecting plantings that are well-suited to the existing soil conditions, ensuring optimal growth and health.

For instance, if the soil is predominantly clay-based with poor drainage, landscape companies may opt for plantings like Red Maple or Sweetbay Magnolia that can tolerate such conditions. On the other hand, where the soil may be loamy with good drainage, landscapers might consider plantings like a butterfly bush or black-eyed Susan that thrive in such environments.

Climate Adaptability

Landscapers consider factors of the local climate such as temperature ranges, average rainfall, and seasonal variations. By selecting plantings that are well-adapted to the climate, landscapers ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the landscape.

For example, in regions with hot and dry summers, landscape companies might choose plantings such as yucca or Russian sage that can tolerate drought conditions. In contrast, where the climate tends to be more humid with a higher annual rainfall, plantings like cardinal flowers or Joe-Pye weed may be preferred due to their ability to thrive in moist environments.

Sunlight Requirements

Different plants have varying sunlight requirements, ranging from full sun to partial shade or full shade. By assessing the lighting conditions of a property, landscape companies can select plantings that will thrive in the available sunlight.

For instance, if an area in your backyard receives ample sunlight throughout the day, landscape companies might opt for plantings like coneflowers or daylilies that flourish in full sun conditions. In shadier areas, landscapers may choose shade-tolerant plantings like Hostas or Astilbes.

Watering and Irrigation Needs

The availability of water resources, as well as the efficiency of irrigation systems, play a significant role in determining the suitability of certain plantings for a landscape design. By considering the water needs of different plant species, landscapers can ensure that the plantings receive adequate hydration without excessive water consumption or wastage. Many landscape companies may choose plantings that are drought-tolerant and require minimal watering once established. Examples of such plantings include Blue Oat Grass or Sedum, which can withstand periods of dryness and reduce the need for frequent irrigation.

Maintenance and Growth Habits

Each plant species has its own growth rate, size, and maintenance needs. By understanding these factors, landscapers can choose plantings that are manageable and compatible with the desired landscape design. For instance, if the goal is to create a low-maintenance landscape, landscape companies may select plantings with slow growth rates and minimal pruning requirements. Native grasses like Little Bluestem or perennials like black-eyed Susans are excellent choices as they require less frequent trimming and maintenance.

Related: 7 Plantings to Consider When You Need a Bit of Privacy in the Bennington, NE and Glenwood, IA Areas