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C2.

THREE INCHES OF MULCH IN PLANTING BEDS

CRITERIA FOR QUALIFICATION This measure is available for partial credit based on a percentage of planting areas that meet this measure. One point of credit is available for projects that meet all of the following: ? ? A minimum of three inches of mulch is installed, measured from the soil to the top of the mulch. The mulch is around all trees, bushes, and other plants. The mulch is made from organic matter, such as bark, grass clippings, leaves, compost, or straw.

This measure applies to all projects that include landscaping, including planter boxes. No points will be awarded for projects that do not include landscaping. Turf is excluded from this measure. VERIFICATION Field Verification: The Rater will measure the mulch in a minimum of three locations to verify its depth and confirm that it is made of organic material. The Rater will take representative photos showing that all criteria have been met. INTENT To reduce water consumption by slowing evapotranspiration (which is the evaporation of water from the soil). To reduce the need for herbicides by inhibiting weed growth naturally.

C3.

RESOURCE EFFICIENT LANDSCAPES

CRITERIA FOR QUALIFICATION Up to five points of credit are available, as follows: C3.1. No Invasive Species Listed by Cal-IPC (1 Point)

All trees, bushes, and other plants in the landscape area (including turf) cannot appear on the California Invasive Plant Council (Cal-IPC) Invasive Plant Inventory list. C3.2. Plants Chosen and Located to Grow to Natural Size (1 Point)

The need for shearing or pruning is determined by a combination of plant species and plant location (specifically, the proximity to neighboring plants, walkways, walls, driveways, etc.). All plants, trees, bushes, and other plants (but not turf) in all planting areas must be spaced to grow to their mature size and natural shape. The plants should require either no or very limited (once per year, or less) shearing or pruning. Branches should not significant ly impede any pathways between maintenance cycles. Avoid overplanting for instant effect. Shrubs located in a row or adjacent to buildings, sidewalks, or roads must be spaced at least at their minimum plant spread. Groundcovers and grasses located in a row or adjacent to buildings, sidewalks, or roads can be planted at up to three-quarters of their minimum spread requirements. Trees adjacent to buildings or other vertical obstructions must be spaced at up to three-quarters of their minimum spacing requirements. GreenPoint Rated Existing Home Rating Manual Version 6.0, September 2013 © Build It Green 19