SUMMER BRINGS WITH IT a range of
wonders. Hopefully, it’s afforded you the ability
to slow down, spend more time with family, and
maybe you’ve been able to take that relaxing summer
vacation. While it can be a great time for you, it can be
a stressful season for your yard. Heat, bugs, increased
rain, and the often scorching sun can cause plants to
wither and your yard to look less lush than you would
like. Your yard might also take more time and effort
than you want to spend on it in the draining heat. So
what contributes to a yard that is difficult to maintain?
I would submit to you that the main reason you may
be struggling with your green spaces is due a lack of
native plants. Instead of exhausting yourself in terms of
20 | YOUR HOME® MAGAZINE
watering, spraying chemicals, and spending time and
money; it simply makes more sense to select plants with
natural vitality that can withstand the varied conditions
of Southwest Florida.
At first it may seem like native plants don’t offer
the excitement vibrant hybrids and exotic plants do.
However, when used in a thoughtfully planned design
that’s implemented with a curated palette, native plants
are by far the best choice. There’s no need for them to
adapt to local growing conditions—they come ready
to survive and thrive in harmony with the environment
and climate, making them a low maintenance option
that gives you more time to actually enjoy your yard and
green spaces.
Native vegetation
makes your yard
beautiful and
easy to care for
while reducing the
need for water,
fertilizers, and
chemicals. They
also provide a
habitat for native
wildlife creating
a balance of
beneficial animals
and insects that
will protect you
yard from harmful
pests.