What is Lakescaping?

Lakescaping is a comprehensive strategy for managing shorelines of lakes, ponds, or other wet areas. The main premise behind lakescaping is to restore(or maintain) the shoreline while creating a “buffer zone” between the aquatic and terrestrial areas. Buffer zones restore the ecological integrity and function of a shoreline that are greatly reduced by traditional “lawn-friendly” landscapes. A buffer zone of native plants will add great interest to a landscape by providing variance in color, texture, and habitat for wildlife. Lakescaping provides areas for wildlife for nesting, perching, and feeding.

What are the Benefits of Lakescaping?

Shoreline with significant erosion prior to Lakescaping to stabilize the lake's edge.

• Reduces soil erosion
• Acts as a filter between lawns and lakes
• Acts as a water purifier
• Reduces the amount of high maintenance lawn areas
• Increase in wildlife
• Can deter pests like Canadian Geese

Lakescaping Maintenance

A good lakescaping plan will reduce the amount of mowing, watering, and chemical needed on a site. The most important part of maintenance is weeding. Diligent weeding is essential for the first few seasons. Perennials should not be cut down in fall like other garden perennials. They will provide shelter over the winter for wildlife. The buffer zone can also block leaves from blowing into the water area in fall. Some amount of change needs to be expected as water levels and weather patterns change over time. Some plants will thrive while others may be out-competed.

Other Helpful Hints

A good plan should include a variety of native trees, shrubs, perennials, grasses, sedges, emergents, and submergents. The plantings should cover at least 75% of the shoreline leaving enough room for docks, swimming, and other needs. It may take the entire first year to control the invasive weeds before planting even begins.

Preferred Plants for Lakescaping

Invasive Plants to Manage

Glossy buckthorn
Purple loosestrife
Smooth brome grass
Reed canary grass
Broad-leaf cattail
Leafy spurge
Crown vetch
Queen Anne’s lace
Sweet clover
Bird’s foot trefoil