Get matched with top landscapers in Ashland, MT

A green home is one that focuses on conservation, with the goal often being net-zero carbon emissions and self-sustainability. It will often include some kind of self-generation equipment, like solar panels or a small wind turbine, high-efficiency electrical components and mechanicals, and high-quality insulation and air sealing to reduce the loss of conditioned air. Many green homes also include xeriscaping or rainwater collection to cut down on drainage and water consumption.

When planting, it's best to leave several feet between a house and a juniper bush. Many juniper varieties will become quite bushy and require space to grow. Juniper branches that come into contact with siding can damage the home's exterior over time. Also, some juniper bushes have aggressive roots that can put pressure on a home's foundation or basement walls. 

You should avoid planting grass, shrubs, plants, and trees in freezing temperatures, as the ground can get frozen and become too hard for proper root growth. It’s best to plant in the fall to allow your plants to establish root systems before the first frost. Landscaping when the average temperature in your area is between 50 and 60 degrees will usually deliver the best results.

The truth is, there really is no such thing as a 100% deer-proof plant. Deer will decimate even the prickliest flora if they’re hungry enough. However, there are plenty of beautiful plants that deer don’t necessarily enjoy. These include thistles, wisteria vines, sword ferns, and beautyberries.

Deer are herbivores, and they love vegetable gardens as much as Peter Rabbit. If you don’t want to fence in your entire property, consider creating an attractive raised-bed veggie garden with mesh fencing around it to keep out deer and other critters.