Sustainable Landscaping in Devens

As warmer weather returns, many residents and businesses are thinking about yardwork and outdoor projects. These activities are more than just seasonal chores—they’re an opportunity to make your property work for the environment and your wallet.  

Landscaping with sustainability in mind can help reduce energy bills, manage stormwater, and lower summer temperatures around your home. With the right strategies, your yard can be part of the solution to local climate challenges. Here are four ways to get started plus additional tips for renters.  

1. Plant a Shade Tree  

Planting a tree may seem like a small action, but the benefits are substantial. Well-placed shade trees can reduce cooling costs by up to 35% by blocking sunlight and lowering surrounding temperatures. They also improve air quality, absorb stormwater, and make your yard more comfortable during hot summer days.  

Whether you’re adding a single tree or planning a longer-term yard design, selecting the right species and location is key. The Arbor Day Foundation offers a helpful guide to tree selection and placement based on your home’s needs.  

• Learn more: Tree Resources for Summer Shade  

Did You Know? Devens Forward Project Tie-In: As part of the Ayer Shirley Pocket Forest Project, the DEC has worked with Ayer and Devens DPWs and the Parks Department to identify areas that are candidates for rewilding and / or reduced mowing.  These public land areas if planted with native plants and rewilded, will help expand the natural habitats and provide connectivity for species to access naturalized native areas, including the permanently protected open space areas and pocket forest sites. More information on this initiative will be provided in the coming month.  Visit the pocket forest webpage here. 
 

2. Plant Native Plants  

Native plants, i.e. plant species that are local to our state and region, support pollinators, foster biodiversity, and thrive in our climate. If you’re not sure where to begin looking for native flowers, shrubs, and trees for your space, the Massachusetts Native Plant Palette is a great starting point.  

Want to see native plants in action? Visit the pollinator meadow at the Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge. Visit this page for more information. 

• Explore native plant options: Massachusetts Native Plant Palette  

• Have a larger spot that needs filling, and up for a bigger project? Use this rain garden guide page to construct your own water-saving garden 

Did You Know? Devens Forward Project Tie-In: In June, DEC and DEEC hosted a green team meeting with a focus on encouraging and supporting rewilding efforts.  See our recent blog. This event brought together Devens Business partners interested in supporting more biodiversity on their campuses to tour the Watson Marlow site which has created native meadow and pitch pine plantings to enhance biodiversity. We look forward to showcasing future habitat restoration projects. 

3. Use Water Wisely with Irrigation Upgrades 

Automatic irrigation systems are convenient—but they can waste a lot of water if they’re not set up efficiently. An easy upgrade? A wireless watering sensor that can detect rain or soil moisture to prevent wasteful overwatering.  

• Try EPA WaterSense systems: WaterSense labels two types of irrigation controllers that help save water: weather-based controllers adjust watering based on local weather and landscape conditions, while soil moisture sensors water only when soil is dry. These smart technologies ensure plants get the water they need without waste. When properly installed and maintained, they’re a better alternative to traditional clock-based systems. 

• Learn more from EPA WaterSense 

4. Irrigate and Maintain Responsibly  

Even without upgraded tech, there are smart ways to keep your yard healthy without overusing water:  

• Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.  

• Group plants with similar water needs to avoid overwatering.  

• Use mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.  

• Regularly check for leaks in your irrigation system.  

• Test your soil and only fertilize when you need to (if you have to at all!) 

• Use these sustainable landscaping tips from the state for more information 

Every gallon saved helps conserve water and protect local resources, especially during dry spells. 

Bonus: Tips for Renters  

Not every resident owns their yard, but that doesn’t mean you’re shut out from sustainable gardening. Here are a few renter-friendly ideas:  

• Container gardening: Grow herbs, veggies, or pollinator plants in pots on a porch, patio, or balcony.  

• Skip the chemical fertilizers and pesticides: They can harm local waterways and wildlife—and many container plants don’t need them.  

• Join a community garden: look for local or neighborhood plant clubs 

• Collect rainwater: Even a small barrel or bucket can go a long way for watering your plants naturally.