The 3 Best Landscape Types for Southern Oregon Residents in the Applegate Valley

Nestled in the heart of Southern Oregon, the Applegate Valley is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystem. Residents of Medford and Ashland, two of the valley’s most vibrant communities, have unique opportunities to enhance their properties through thoughtful landscaping. When considering the maintenance and affordability of landscaping on a .5 acre or 1 acre house plot, it’s essential to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of lawn-based, bark-based, and rock-based landscapes.

Lawn-Based Landscapes

Overview: Lawn-based landscapes are traditional and widely appreciated for their lush, green appearance. They provide a soft, safe surface for outdoor activities and contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of a property.

Affordability: Maintaining a lawn in Southern Oregon, especially over larger areas like .5 to 1 acre plots, can be moderately expensive. The costs include regular mowing, watering, fertilizing, and weed control. In the Applegate Valley, where water usage and conservation are significant concerns, the expense of irrigation can add up, making lawn-based landscapes less affordable in the long run.

Bark-Based Landscapes

Overview: Bark-based landscapes utilize organic mulch and bark chips to cover the ground. This type of landscaping is effective in suppressing weeds, retaining soil moisture, and adding a neat, cohesive look to garden beds and tree bases.

Affordability: For residents looking for a cost-effective solution, bark-based landscapes are an excellent choice. The initial outlay for bark mulch can be higher than seeding a lawn, but the long-term maintenance costs are significantly lower. Bark mulch needs replenishment only once or twice a year, and its efficiency in weed suppression and moisture retention can reduce the need for watering and weeding.

Rock-Based Landscapes

Overview: Rock-based landscapes, or xeriscaping, incorporate various sizes and colors of rocks, gravel, and stones, often complemented by drought-resistant plants and succulents. This landscaping type is particularly suited to Southern Oregon’s climate, offering an aesthetically pleasing, low-maintenance option.

Affordability: Rock-based landscapes require a higher initial investment, especially for larger areas, due to the cost of materials and the labor involved in laying down landscape fabric and placing rocks. However, once established, they are the most affordable to maintain. There’s no need for mowing, minimal weeding, and significantly reduced watering needs, making them ideal for both .5 acre and 1 acre plots in terms of long-term savings.

Conclusion

For Southern Oregon residents, choosing the right landscape type depends on personal preferences, initial budget, and willingness to engage in ongoing maintenance. Lawn-based landscapes offer traditional beauty but come with higher water and maintenance costs. Bark-based landscapes strike a balance between aesthetics and affordability, requiring less water and maintenance. Rock-based landscapes, while higher in initial cost, provide the most savings over time with minimal maintenance needs.

Regardless of the choice, enhancing your property with any of these landscapes can significantly improve its value and appeal. For those in Medford and Ashland, considering the local climate and water availability will guide you in selecting the most suitable and sustainable landscaping option for your home.

For more personalized advice on landscaping in the Applegate Valley, email support@taprootlandscapinginc.com or visit our site for a live chat with a lawn care technician.