Biodiversity also assumes plants are placed in conditions and environments where they would naturally grow. Reducing resources and minimizing waste in a landscape can be accomplished in many ways. For example, by choosing the correct plants and their locations, watering, pruning, and chemical applications will be reduced. Applying mulch to the soil under plants reduces weed growth that in turn reduces chemical treatments and use of gas-powered trimming equipment. In addition, the mulch improves soil quality over time, minimizing water waste caused by run-off and evaporation.
Soils are typically the most misunderstood and undervalued resource in urban landscapes.
Soil quality and character significantly affect the growth and health of plants, and should be major considerations in landscape installation. Whenever previously undisturbed landscape areas are slated for construction, the top 6 inches of soil should be scraped off and stockpiled. Save the soil and reuse it as the final layer of soil once construction is completed. Since a substantial amount of root growth occurs in the top 6-12 inches of soil, this reused soil can significantly enhance the establishment and growing conditions for new plants. Drainage and water retention are improved, oxygen storage is increased, and the living organisms in the soil are healthier.