“I have a deep passion for ecological landscape design and am greatly inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's philosophy of incorporating nature into every aspect of his work,” the horticulturist said.
Why choose ecological design?
Ecological design may seem foreign at first, but it's actually a concept that aligns beautifully with the values and lifestyle goals of many homeowners.
It's really about creating outdoor spaces that are not only beautiful to look at, but also functional and in harmony with nature. Think of it as a way to bring the beauty and restorative power of the natural world into your own backyard.
It's about nurturing biodiversity, conserving resources and enhancing the well-being of both families and the environment.
Ecological garden design offers the best of both worlds: it has the beauty and tranquility of a purposefully designed garden, with the added ecological benefits, and it's the most low-maintenance of all garden styles.
aesthetics
There is a misconception about ecological design that there is only one relevant aesthetic or style.
Ecological design isn't limited to a particular look: it can incorporate formal elements with clean lines and structured plantings while supporting biodiversity.
You can choose plants that intrigue you at every stage of their life, from birth to flowering, flowering to death, and death to decay.
Each stage is beautiful and adds a variety of color and texture to the garden, which keeps the garden interesting and fun to look at no matter the season.
A native garden can range from planting a prairie in your backyard to planting native wildflowers on your front porch. You can also plant native, drought-tolerant prairie plants in pots on your balcony. Gardens can reflect a variety of habitats, including woodland, grassland, manicured prairie, wetlands, and pond gardens.
An ecological garden doesn't have to look like this. istock An ecological garden can look like this too.
(Image courtesy of Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons/Photo: Mark Lord) Morris & Company Garden by Ruth Willmott. Photo: Ruth Willmott
Use low walls, edging, mulch and other materials to separate different groupings of plants and create well-defined, geometric planting beds with clean lines.
As I stroll through the garden, coffee cup in hand, my usual bird friends greet me: the European goldfinch, black-capped chickadee, cardinal, blue jay, and painted lark that visit this time of year. I make a quick inspection of an Eastern phoebe nest and am relieved to see the mother bird there, with her second chick of the year. Early-rising bumblebees buzz noisily, the enticing scent of milkweed fills the air, and the garden is bustling with pollinator activity.
Photo by Monica Rekora
I have a deep passion for ecological landscape design and am heavily inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's philosophy of incorporating nature into every aspect of his work.
We start by incorporating the existing landscape – the trees, rocks and bodies of water – and design the garden to blend with these natural features, using gentle, flowing lines and organic shapes to create a sense of unity and belonging with the surroundings.
To me, sustainability is important. Prioritize native plants that are well suited to our local climate. Native plants support biodiversity and promote healthier ecosystems because they require less maintenance. Manage water efficiently by using rainwater gardens and permeable paving, and choose locally sourced materials like wood and stone to reduce our environmental impact and support community resources.
I love using natural materials like wood and stone in my gardens because they give it a cozy and calming feel, and combining different textures makes the space more interesting and lively.
Design paths that flow naturally through your garden and connect it to comfortable seating areas with shade and retreats to make your garden feel like an extension of your home.
By choosing colours that complement the surroundings and adding fragrant plants and the sound of water, you can create a garden that stimulates the senses. The key is to make the space vibrant and inviting.
Gardens are great teachers: I love growing food and teaching others about composting and permaculture, and I also love designing habitats for birds, insects and other wildlife.
Personal Benefits
There is a misconception that ecological design is just for nature, with no benefits for humans: “I see I'm doing a lot for wildlife, but what about the benefits for me?”
Healthier Living Environment:
Ecological design promotes the use of native plants, natural materials, and sustainable practices that contribute to purifying the air, water, and soil. By reducing the use of synthetic chemicals and toxins, ecological landscaping creates a healthier living environment for you and your family.
Reduced maintenance:
Ecological gardens are often designed to mimic natural ecosystems and are inherently self-sustaining and low-maintenance. Selecting native plants that are adapted to local climate and soil conditions reduces the need for watering, fertilizing and mowing, saving you time and effort in maintaining your garden.
Connection with nature:
Spending time in an ecological garden can reduce stress, improve your mood, and foster a sense of peace and tranquility amid the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Benefits of gardening:
Gardening provides a holistic experience that is physically, mentally and spiritually engaging. Gardening develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills, stimulates creativity and heightens sensitivity by engaging all of the senses. Gardening also develops patience and brings joy and satisfaction as the plants bloom and thrive.
Now, our gardens face the challenges of ever-more rapidly changing climatic conditions and declining biodiversity.
This is an urgent effort towards a greener, more sustainable future, and every garden, regardless of size, plays a vital role in maintaining the Earth's natural balance and diversity.
Monica Rekora is a certified landscape designer and horticulturist with a passion for gardening and sustainable living. As a budding subsistence farmer and gardening writer, she shares her love of recycling, reusing and bird watching. Monica practices ecological gardening, aiming to balance our delicate ecosystems. Contact her at [email protected].
