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Landscaping for Curb Appeal: Essential #2 Native Plants

2/5/2016

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Whether you're putting in a new landscape or tearing-out and replacing an old one, going native with your trees and shrubs is always a smart choice! Indigenous species tend to suck up less water and require lower maintenance than plantings that fall outside your native zone, both aspects that your future home-buyer will appreciate! Incorporating a native plant-palette saves you money, but it can bring-in money as well. In her Houselogic article, Gordon highlights a local example for us: "In Mesa, Arizona, a generous assortment of lovely Saguaro and other native cacti can boost a home's value by $500 to $5,000, depending on size, says Realtor Cathy Joyce."

Like trees, native plants serve many functions that are attractive to potential buyers, and at the same time improve the built environment. Mass plantings, for example, are beautiful and can assist in the stabilization of slopes, cover large expanses of bare ground, and help maintain water on your property. If you live in a community with Natural Area Open Space (NAOS) the thoughtful planting of natives will help blend your personal landscape with that of the adjacent natural landscape beyond, and in turn unify the whole view from your home. Indigenous species will also benefit wildlife through introduction or extension of habitats for birds, butterflies, and small mammals looking for a place to roost or feed.

For homeowners in the lower-desert cities (Phoenix-Tucson), here’s a list of some great natives to get you started in your hot garden paradise: Brittlebush, Creosote, Chuparosa, Golden Eye, Hop Bush, Jojoba, Superstition Mallow, Blackfoot Daisy, Globe Mallow, Penstemon, Parry’s Agave, etc...

For homeowners in the upland areas (Flagstaff), here are some of our favorites: Rabbitbrush, White Sage Brush, Utah Serviceberry, New Mexico Locust, Arizona & Blue Fescues, ‘Karl Foerester’ Grass, Blue Flax, and Butterfly Milkweed.

Be sure to visit the Sonoran Shadows Plant Library for more specific information on these great species!

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