About Us

 Ecological gardening is different from traditional landscaping.  Rather than altering the soil chemistry, tilling heavily, and strategically placing showy plants in a mulch-covered garden bed, ecological gardening seeks to work with the existing conditions on the site, using plants that will thrive and fill the existing soil with layers of vegetation - supporting native insects, birds and mammals, and surviving without extensive watering, weeding, and chemical inputs.  Ecological gardens are also dynamic – they look different from year to year, as longer-lived species begin to replace the “pioneers” that favor disturbed areas.  There are techniques to favor certain species over others, but this style of gardening will primarily let the plants decide when and where they will thrive the best.  Ecological gardens do not require heavy-handed maintenance, but will be most successful with some gentle, on-going management.

There will be some “trial and error” as we find the best plants for your site. The soil pH, shading, moisture content and local wildlife abundance all have an effect on the plant’s viability at the site.  It may also take a few years for the garden to completely fill in, as we figure out what will work, and allow it to propagate naturally, or with some assistance.

Call or email to schedule a consultation.  After meeting you and seeing your property, we can provide a quote for the design.  If you choose to continue with the design process, we will schedule a time to take detailed measurements and photos of your property, which we will use to create a plan for hardscape elements and plants.  We will provide drafts in digital form, create one or more prospective images of the design, and estimate material quantities.  Once the final plan is chosen, we will provide a paper copy, if desired, an updated estimate of material quantities, and a recommendation of project phases.    After plant selections are finalized, we will provide a guide to your plants.  If you are feeling overwhelmed by the project, we may be able to connect you to a local contractor that can help you with the installation.