As a landscape designer, it is our role to design systems and spaces that at the bare minimum maintain current biodiversity. We like to go further and always strive to support and enhance biodiversity.
What is biodiversity?
Biodiversity refers to every living thing, including: plants, bacteria, animals, and humans. The term is used to describe the wide variety of life found on Earth. It also used more specifically to refer to the variety of species in one region or ecosystem. When we mention biodiversity in our landscaped gardens, we are talking about the living things found within the outdoor space and the immediate local area.
The effects on biodiversity
Often overlooked in landscape design is the supply chain of materials. For example, timber that has been cut in Europe or Canada and shipped to the UK is a prime example of the wider impact on the environment. We always try to source materials as locally as possible to minimise any effects. We use local sawmills that typically deal with local timber and we always ensure we know our supply chain.
There is often a need to alter the landscape quite significantly with machinery. This of course does mean that the environment and the associated life are altered to some capacity. However, we always mitigate any damage caused by carrying out a thorough survey to see which plants and animals will be affected by any proposed changes and detailing how these impacts can be reduced.
The importance of balance
Whenever there are significant landscape changes to be made, we carry out a careful plan that allows us to get it right the first time.
Through using an abundance of edibles within our designs, we are opening another dimension in diversity. Many perennial edible plants are also great for flowers and wildlife. The addition of edible plants increases interaction, and this has many positive effects.
We have found through experience that an important part of a good ecological landscape design is to provide a small space that is purposely for wildlife. A noise-quiet corner where any flora and fauna can do their thing uninterrupted by human intervention.
By starting with a thorough observation and detailed survey at the beginning of every design, we can be confident we understand the landscape and the life it supports. Every outdoor space is unique. Through our detailed surveys, in-depth soil analysis and understanding of plant relationships, we design systems suited perfectly to the space. Always ensuring that the biodiversity is maintained and in a large majority of cases, enhanced for generations to come.
Have any questions or would like to discuss a design for your outdoor space? Please head to our Contact page and fill out the online form or alternatively, you can call us directly on 01273 107326 / 07565 842951.
We look forward to learning how we can nurture your landscape for the future.