Landscaping

2. Lay a Path of Pavers and GravelGarden paths made of pavers and gravel are not only attractive, they’re also Earth-friendly, as their loose gravel joints allow water to drain directly back into the soil rather than running off to a drain required by hardscape materials such as solid concrete and mortared brick. Cost: Cost varies widely depending on materials and size of the path. Landscape designer Zach Hammaker of ZH Design advises clients to budget between $25 and $50 per square foot for a professionally installed path. This range of cost includes materials and the installation. See the full project

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Nice walkway but substitute brick for rock.

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6. Install a Greywater SystemIf you keep a bucket in your shower to collect water to use in your garden, then you’re already using a form of greywater, the gently used water from showers, bathtubs, laundry and sinks. You can take this a step further by directing your greywater directly into your landscape through pipes that connect to your house (this is a great way to water trees). Greywater systems vary in complexity, with laundry-to-landscape systems being the most popular and straightforward. Not only does a greywater system capture and repurpose water that would otherwise be sent to the storm drains, it also reduces your home’s carbon footprint because the water no longer needs to be treated. Additionally, it returns water to the aquifers and recharges the soils, all the while helping you grow a beautiful garden.Cost: If you are hiring someone, expect to pay at least $1,000 for a laundry-to-landscape system, $2,000 for a branched drain system and $4,000 for a pumped system. Complex systems can be quite a bit more. See the full projectMoreNative Plants 101To Manage Stormwater Sustainably, Understand Your SiteGet ideas for more Earth-friendly outdoor projects

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