Retaining native trees and shrubs, and planting back native or endemic species can bring important cost-saving benefits to your development project in the long-run.

Here are five, key reasons infusing your landscaping plans with native species can help you save money.

1. Spend less on landscaping

By retaining natural features of your site and keeping mature plants in place, you reduce the need to introduce costly landscape designs into your project. Landscaping your development can costs tens of thousands of dollars and you are unlikely to be able to replace mature shade trees lost during construction with species of similar size and maturity. Installing younger, exotic trees and growing them to the height and maturity of the existing vegetation will cost far more than simply retaining these plants in the first place.

2. Use less water

Native species are more likely to be salt and drought tolerant because they are uniquely adapted to the growing conditions of the Cayman Islands. Native trees and shrubs require a lot less water to thrive than introduced, exotic species which helps reduce your water bills in the long-run.

3. Lower maintenance costs

Native species are more resistant to pests and generally require less maintenance than introduced, exotic species which helps reduce your landscaping maintenance costs in the long-run.

4. Use less chemicals

Because native trees and plants are less likely to become targets for pests, you can avoid the use of harsh chemicals like pesticides and herbicides in your landscaping. Not only does this ensure your project is healthier for the end user, it also reduces your overall landscaping maintenance costs.

5. Get biodiversity benefits for free

Retaining existing trees and shrubs, and incorporating native species into your landscape design helps bring the many benefits of higher biodiversity to your project for free. Healthy ecosystems provide a variety of services that support human beings and our communities. From attractive wildlife to cooler ambient temperatures, native trees and shrubs can enhance the visual appeal and overall value of your project.