Coastal Virginia, particularly the picturesque towns of Cape Charles, Onancock, Chincoteague, and Exmore on the Eastern Shore, offers unique opportunities and challenges for sustainable landscaping. With its sandy soils, salty breezes, and temperate climate, this region demands thoughtful planning to create beautiful, eco-friendly outdoor spaces. By incorporating native plants, eco-conscious design principles, and water-smart practices, homeowners in these charming towns can create sustainable landscapes that enhance their properties while preserving the delicate coastal ecosystem.
Understanding the Coastal Virginia Landscape
The Eastern Shore of Virginia is a narrow peninsula bordered by the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. This unique geography creates an environment characterized by:
- Sandy Soils: Quick-draining but often nutrient-poor, sandy soils require careful plant selection and soil amendment strategies.
- Salt Exposure: Coastal winds and occasional storm surges can introduce salt into the soil and air, challenging sensitive plants.
- Mild Winters: The region’s relatively mild winters allow for a broad palette of plant options, including semi-tropical species.
- Wetlands and Marshes: Coastal Virginia is rich in wetlands, which play a vital role in water filtration, flood control, and wildlife habitat.
By understanding these regional traits, homeowners in Coastal Virginia and the Eastern Shore can make informed decisions about sustainable landscaping.
1. Prioritize Native and Salt-Tolerant Plants
Native plants are the backbone of a sustainable landscape because they are adapted to the local environment, requiring less water, fertilizer, and pest control. Coastal Virginia’s natives also provide critical habitat for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife.
Here are some top choices for the region:
- Seaside Goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens): A salt-tolerant wildflower that adds golden hues to your garden in the fall.
- American Beach Grass (Ammophila breviligulata): Ideal for stabilizing sandy soils and dunes, this grass is a workhorse for erosion control.
- Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana): This hardy evergreen thrives in salty air and provides year-round structure to landscapes.
- Virginia Saltbush (Baccharis halimifolia): A resilient shrub that tolerates salt and attracts pollinators with its small white flowers.
- Bayberry (Myrica pensylvanica): Known for its aromatic leaves and waxy berries, this shrub is perfect for hedges and wildlife gardens.
In addition to native plants, consider salt-tolerant non-natives that support sustainability, such as crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) and yaupon holly (Ilex vomitoria).
2. Design for Water Efficiency
Water is a precious resource, and sustainable landscaping in Coastal Virginia means reducing water use while managing stormwater effectively.
- Rain Gardens: Create depressions in your yard planted with water-tolerant species like swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) and blue flag iris (Iris versicolor). These gardens capture and filter runoff, preventing flooding and pollution.
- Drip Irrigation: Use drip irrigation systems to deliver water directly to plant roots, minimizing waste.
- Mulching: Apply organic mulch around plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
- Rain Barrels: Harvest rainwater from your roof to water your garden during dry periods.
The town of Chincoteague, parts of Accomack county and Exmore, prone to periodic flooding, can particularly benefit from these water-smart practices to mitigate stormwater runoff and protect nearby waterways.
3. Reduce Lawn Areas
Traditional turfgrass lawns require frequent watering, mowing, and chemical inputs, making them less sustainable. Replace large expanses of lawn with alternatives like:
- Meadows: Plant native grasses and wildflowers to create a vibrant, low-maintenance meadow. This approach is especially suited for larger properties in more rural parts of the Eastern Shore.
- Groundcovers: Choose low-growing native plants like creeping juniper (Juniperus horizontalis) or green-and-gold (Chrysogonum virginianum) for a lush, lawn-free landscape.
- Functional Hardscaping: Use permeable pavers, gravel paths, or natural stone to create functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces that reduce runoff.
4. Protect Coastal Ecosystems
Sustainable landscaping in Coastal Virginia means working in harmony with the surrounding environment. For homeowners near wetlands or marshes, this includes preserving native vegetation and avoiding invasive species.
- Buffer Zones: Maintain or plant vegetative buffers along waterways to filter runoff and provide habitat for wildlife.
- Erosion Control: Use plants with deep root systems, like switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) or marshmallow plant (Hibiscus moscheutos), to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Invasive Species Removal: Remove invasive plants like Japanese honeysuckle and Phragmites to allow native species to thrive.
The wetlands around Chincoteague and the barrier islands near Cape Charles are critical habitats for migratory birds and other wildlife, making these efforts particularly important in these areas.
5. Embrace Edible Landscaping
Sustainability and productivity go hand in hand with edible landscaping. Plant fruit trees, berry bushes, and herbs that thrive in Coastal Virginia’s climate:
- Figs (Ficus carica): Hardy and productive, fig trees do well in the region’s sandy soils.
- **Blueberries (Vaccinium spp.): Choose native varieties like highbush blueberries for a delicious and wildlife-friendly option.
- Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, and sage are not only culinary staples but also drought-tolerant plants that can add texture to your landscape.
Edible landscaping allows you to reduce food miles while enjoying fresh, homegrown produce right in your backyard.
6. Incorporate Wildlife-Friendly Features
Coastal Virginia is home to diverse wildlife, from migratory birds to pollinators. Enhance your yard’s biodiversity with these features:
- Pollinator Gardens: Plant clusters of nectar-rich flowers to attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
- Birdhouses and Feeders: Provide nesting spots and food for local bird species.
- Ponds and Water Features: Add small water features to support frogs, dragonflies, and other aquatic life.
7. Support Local Nurseries and Landscapers
When sourcing plants and materials, opt for local nurseries and landscapers who understand the region’s specific needs. In towns like Exmore, there are contractors that specialize in native plants and sustainable landscaping services, ensuring your choices are both eco-friendly and suited to Coastal Virginia’s environment.
Conclusion: A Green Future for Coastal Virginia
By planting a sustainable landscape in Cape Charles, Onancock, Chincoteague, and Exmore, homeowners can create outdoor spaces that are as beautiful as they are environmentally responsible. From selecting native and salt-tolerant plants to designing water-efficient gardens, these practices not only enhance your property but also preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Eastern Shore.
As more residents embrace sustainability, Coastal Virginia will continue to thrive as a model for eco-friendly living. Whether you’re strolling along the sandy shores of Cape Charles or enjoying the tranquil wetlands near Chincoteague, a sustainable landscape ensures that this stunning region remains vibrant for generations to come.