C Landscape
C2.
THREE INCHES OF MULCH IN PLANTING BEDS
CRITERIA FOR QUALIFICATION One point of credit is available for projects that meet all of the following:
C3.
� 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.
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.
DRAFT
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 significantly 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.
When planting near power lines, select trees with mature heights of less than 20 feet to reduce pruning.
DRAFT GreenPoint Rated New Home Rating Manual Version 6.0, September 2013 15 © Build It Green