When it comes to landscape design in Vancouver, we look at the big picture before starting any work. To deepen your connection with nature, we consider how to create vibrant spaces that last and have a meaningful impact on your home and surrounding neighbourhood. One of the ways we do this is by thinking about durability, beauty, and sustainability. We believe green spaces have a direct influence on how we live. That’s why we consider every aspect of landscape design and construction. One of our favourite solutions for creating healthier landscapes is to incorporate native plant species into our work.
What exactly do we mean by native plants? Simply plants that are found naturally in your neighbourhood, ecosystem, or region without human intervention. Over the centuries, these plants have formed symbiotic relationships with wildlife and thrive in the soils, moisture and weather surrounding your property.
For our clients, that means less watering, pest control, and maintenance. These species are naturally durable and assist in managing rainwater runoff and maintaining healthy soil as root systems keep erosion at bay.
Native Plants are integral to how we approach landscape design in Vancouver.
Why include native plants as part of landscaping design?
Reason Number 1: Ease
Native plants are uniquely adapted to BC’s weather, insects, and soil conditions. Once established, native plants generally require little maintenance.
Reason Number 2: Beauty
Many native plants feature stunning foliage and flowers. They may also produce colourful fruits and seeds that attract birds and other wildlife. Depending on the species, you may enjoy brilliant seasonal changes with colours that vary from the soft yellow-greens of early spring to the vibrant oranges and striking berry reds in fall and winter. At EcoBridge, we work with local nurseries that provide a stunning selection of healthy native perennials, which we carefully choose for each project we create.
Reason Number 3: Greener, Cleaner Landscapes
Lawns and flowery landscapes are notorious for requiring profuse amounts of work as well as fertilizers and herbicides, which can be filled with toxic chemicals. The traditional lawn, on average, has 10x more chemical pesticides per acre than farmland. Incorporating native plants into landscaping design means supporting local wildlife while cultivating a healthier green space for friends, family, and community.
Reason Number 4: Fight Climate Change
Landscaping with native plants works to combat climate change. Many native plants, especially long-living trees like oaks and maples, act as effective carbon sinks, pulling C02 out of the air.
Reason Number 5: Support Wildlife Diversity
In addition to providing habitat for birds and other species of wildlife, specific plants may be chosen to attract colorful array of butterflies and moths. Native plants provide nectar for pollinators like hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, moths, and bats, which is good for the ecosystem and food supply, including our own.
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Our Favourites:
There are over 2500 native plant species in BC. We work with local growers, carefully selecting the right species for your unique zone and project. Here are a few to consider adding to your garden.
Salal (Gaultheria shallon)
This lovely small evergreen shrub is perfect for those tough, shady spots with sandy soil. The plant features small purple berries in the late summer, which attracts a variety of birds.
Sword Fern (Polystichum munitum)
As a quick-growing, shade-loving evergreen, the sword fern remains an undisputed garden staple.
Red Flowering Currant (Ribes sanguineum)
This bright, early bloomer attracts swaths of hummingbirds and other pollinators, making it a must for wildlife lovers.
Tall Oregon Grape (Mahonia aquifolium)
Enjoy bold yellow flowers and blue berries, which draw helpful insects and birds to the yard. Bonus–this drought tolerant species had modest water requirements.
Kinnikinick (Arctostaphylos uva-urs)
A favourite for edging, this drought-tolerant species will draw butterflies while still standing up to foot traffic, even in poor soil conditions.
Nodding Onion (Allium cernuum)
A unique and whimsical choice to spruce up any space. Beloved by pollinators and curious neighbours. Handles poor and rocky soil with ease, and bulbs spread quickly
Oceanspray (Holodiscus discolor)
Bright swaths of white flowers reminiscent of the classic astilbe. Attract birds and butterflies all season long. Plant on slopes to help stabilize the ground.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
A tough little pollinator magnet featuring delicate feathery leaves with various colour options.
Nootka Rose (Rosa nutkana)
A great native alternative to the classic English rose. Mature thickets provide a great privacy shelter and are highly sought out for certain species of birds for nesting.
Creating a beautiful and resilient landscape can be challenging. By working one-on-one with homeowners, we come up with a plan to meet your goals before construction even starts. This allows us to:
- Overcome challenges prior to construction
- Conceptualize beautiful, budget-friendly designs
- Plan and optimize usage of space
- Complete work with integrity and satisfaction
We’re pleased to collaborate with homeowners across the city, including West Vancouver and North Vancouver. Connect with us at 778.222.1701 for a commitment-free conversation about landscape design in Vancouver.
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