The Advantages of Permeable Hardscapes

What is permeable hardscape and why/where would I use it?

Answer: Landscaping is the perfect way to spark a little creativity in our lives. Adding a beautiful birdbath, planting gorgeous tulips, or simply placing a pathway of stunning stones are great ways to enhance your landscape.

When it comes to landscaping, there are two main categories: hardscapes and softscapes. Softscapes are the living plants that are used in designing your landscape while the hardscapes are the non-living elements such as patios, fountains, walls, stone walkways, etc.

Most people tend to think of the radiant shrubs, trees and flowerbeds that border homes as examples of landscapes; however the hardscaping components in yards also add a touch of elegant appeal.

Within the category of hardscapes there are permeable and non-permeable materials. The term “permeable," in regards to hardscaping, merely means the ability to allow water to percolate through, seeping into the ground beneath.

Permeable hardscapes are important features to use in our landscapes because allowing water to slowly filter into the ground helps reduce the chance of flooding, prevents unwanted water damage and keeps the soil beneath moist. You can use permeable landscapes wherever you desire, whether it be in a patio, a driveway or just adding a path through your yard.

Landscaping can be so much more than a simple row of trees and hedges. Implementing hardscapes, especially permeable ones, adds a unique and also effective touch to your garden, creating spectacular, eye-catching designs, sure to awe your neighbors.

Image: Chesapeake Bay Program
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Get inspired with Garden How-To University: Creating a Garden – More Than Just Plants for great ways to incorporate hardscape into your garden.

Want to start, expand or revamp your garden with gorgeous landscape designs? Check out Landscape Ideas You Can Use.

Do you wish you had more time for your garden? With The New Low-Maintenance Garden you can learn how to have a beautiful, low-maintenance garden.

Like “do it yourself” projects or just want to spare some creativity? You can transform your garden into a handmade oasis with tips from Handmade Garden Projects.

Enhance the design of your garden with help from the download Smart Gardening Series: Landscaping Ideas.

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