Once turf is removed, we amend the soil as needed, addressing drainage issues and improving soil structure so newly installed native plants can establish strong root systems. Kentucky's clay soil often benefits from amendment before planting, and skipping this step is one of the most common reasons a native landscape underperforms in its first few years.

Rock and mulch are core components of most SmartScape designs. Strategically placed mulch beds reduce water evaporation, suppress weeds, and give the landscape a clean, finished look, while rock or gravel accents can define pathways, borders, or low-maintenance zones that require no plantings at all. We balance these hardscape elements with plantings so the yard feels intentional rather than sparse.

Native plants are then installed according to the design plan, grouped by sun exposure and water needs to keep maintenance efficient. We select species suited specifically to your property's conditions, drawing from Lexington's native plant palette to build a landscape that will genuinely thrive here.

Irrigation efficiency is the final piece of a SmartScape installation. Rather than a traditional sprinkler system running on a fixed schedule regardless of actual need, we design irrigation, or reduce reliance on it entirely, based on the specific water needs of each planting zone. This means less water waste and lower bills once your landscape is established.

The result is a yard that requires significantly less mowing, watering, and fertilizing than a traditional lawn, while offering more visual interest throughout the year. SmartScape installations work for full-property transformations or targeted conversions of problem areas that have never held a healthy lawn.

Contact us to schedule a consultation and find out what a SmartScape installation could look like on your property.