Get matched with top landscapers in Salisbury, NY

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.

Common features in lakefront landscaping projects include native and water-tolerant plants, stone paths, docks or piers, seating areas, and erosion control solutions to create a harmonious integration with the waterfront setting.

The primary disadvantages of xeriscaping are the high upfront cost and the significant labor required to establish it. A xeriscaping project can cost between $3,000 and $24,000 on average. Additionally, the resulting landscape will have less of a traditional green appearance, which may not appeal to everyone's personal taste and could potentially narrow your pool of buyers if you decide to sell your home. However, despite these initial drawbacks, the long-term benefits include saving water, time, and money on lawn maintenance.

The best size rock for your landscaping depends on the design, as different boulders serve different purposes. If you want to group boulders to create a natural-looking cluster, you’ll need a range of sizes. Otherwise, here are some suggestions:

• Small boulders (smaller than 12 inches across): Best for landscape edging and fire pits 

• Medium boulders (12–24 inches): Best for retaining walls and water features

• Large boulders (more than 24 inches): Best as standalone landscaping features, steps, or walkways.

Of course, you can mix and match sizes to create a unique display.