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Frequently Asked Questions

Protecting Native Vegetation
During Construction

Our native trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants are a critical part of the ecosystems of the Lowcountry. These plants take the sun's energy and produce food for themselves and all other organisms, taking up carbon dioxide and producing oxygen in the bargain. They provide food, shelter and homes for our native animal species, and filter our air, reduce glare, and reduce erosion and flooding. Plants also cool our homes by providing shade and humidity, and provide recreation and improve our psychological well-being. A well-planted yard can also add up to 20% additional value to our homes. Saving the existing vertical layers of native vegetation during construction of your home or business can save you money on landscaping, irrigation and pesticides (natives are drought and pest tolerant), and give you the instant gratification of mature landscaping. Here are some important tips to protect your natives during construction:

  • Hire a land surveyor to do a tree survey of your site, prior to drawing any site plans.
  • Walk the site with your architect and identify trees and other vegetation to be saved, adding locations of vegetation onto the tree survey as needed.
  • Sketch all structures, pavement and utility lines on the tree survey in locations that best protect the roots found within the canopy of the vegetation to be preserved. Have the architect draw the final plans from this sketch.
  • Specify barricades around all vegetation to be preserved, as close to the edge of the canopy as possible. Compaction of the soil can destroy root systems, so avoid storage of materials, equipment and vehicles in these areas.
  • Review the site plan with your contractor, emphasizing the importance of tree protection. Consider adding a clause to your contract specifying penalties for removal or damage to protected vegetation.
  • Discuss with your landscaper the installation of any irrigation lines, lighting and ornamental plants. Remember that tree roots can also be damaged by these activities, and limit them within the canopies of protected trees.
  • Monitor the work being done on your site to ensure vegetation protection is accomplished.
  • Consult with a certified arborist and your landscaper to discuss care of trees and other vegetation, respectively, after construction is