West Seattle Native Plant Restoration
Homeowner’s Issue
West Seattle yards face a distinct set of challenges: compacted glacial soils layered with urban fill, heavy winter rains, and shady microclimates under big cedars and maples. Slopes toward Alki or bluffside parcels above Lincoln Park can shed mulch and topsoil during storm months, while raised beds on sun-exposed lots in Admiral dry out quickly in July and August. Invasive English ivy and Himalayan blackberry gain a foothold after a couple wet winters and smother small native plugs if not removed carefully.
HOAs and curb-appeal expectations in neighborhoods like Morgan Junction often require tidy beds, but traditional lawns and ornamental exotics demand water and chemicals. We focus on replacing those high-input areas with native mixes that tolerate Seattle’s 38–44 inches of annual rain, require less summer water once established, and stabilize slopes with deep-rooted groundcovers and shrubs. Expect an initial establishment window of two growing seasons for most shrubs and plugs; annuals and grasses will settle in the first year. Our methods avoid herbicides and rely on organic soil rebuilding, mulches, and hand removal so your yard supports pollinators and meets local stormwater concerns.
Our Quality Service
We assess sun, slope, soil texture, drainage patterns, and existing weeds before any planting. Work includes targeted invasive removal by hand, soil amendment with compost, and planting nursery-grade native shrubs and plugs selected for micro-site conditions. For slopes we use erosion-control fabric alternatives, native willow staking, and terracing when needed.
Typical jobs run from a one-day small-plot install to multi-day restorations for larger sites; most residential installs finish planting in 1–3 days, with a follow-up visit each of the first two growing seasons. We prioritize sustainable tools: hand-tools, battery pruners, compost, mulch, and drip or soaker irrigation where needed. No herbicides — ever.
Benefits: reduced summer water use, stabilized soil on slopes, increased pollinator habitat, and durable curb appeal that fits HOA expectations.
What’s Included
- On-site assessment and written plant plan.
- Invasive removal (hand-pulled, cut-and-dig as required).
- Soil prep with organic amendments and pH checks.
- Planting of natives (shrubs, grasses, groundcovers) and mulch application.
- One seasonal follow-up (first-year check) and watering guidance.
Options / Upgrades
- Mulch + biodegradable weed barrier (sheet-mulch) for aggressive beds.
- Organic weed control labor (repeat hand-weeding sessions).
- Drip/soaker irrigation installation for establishment.
- Haul-away debris vs. green-bin disposal (client choice).
Before & After / Expectations
Expect some noise and dirt during installation: hauling, digging, and plant-moving create short-term disruption. Most small jobs leave the property broom-clean same day; larger installs may require a follow-up pickup. We label plants and leave a simple care sheet.
Aftercare tips for West Seattle:
- Water plugs deeply but infrequently—morning soak every 5–10 days in summer for year one, tapering off as rains return.
- Watch spring for weed flushes—remove seedlings before they set seed.
- Shade areas will harbor moss and ivy; plan for ongoing hand-removal and mulching to reduce moss spread.
- On slopes, avoid concentrated runoff—redirect roof leaders and add infiltration where possible.
FAQs (3–5)
Q: How long until native shrubs look established?
A: Most shrubs show strong root growth within 12–24 months; expect visual maturity in 2–4 years depending on species.Q: Do you use herbicides to control invasives?
A: No. We use only mechanical and organic methods—hand-pulling, cutting, and sheet-mulching.Q: Will this change neighborhood curb appeal or HOA compliance?
A: Yes—native beds can be designed tidy and compliant. We plan layouts to meet common HOA sightlines and maintenance norms.Q: What access do you need?
A: Clear 3–4 ft access to beds is ideal. For larger equipment on steep slopes we’ll discuss staging and minimal-impact access strategies.
Call to Action
West Seattle homeowners: if you’re ready to replace thirsty, high-maintenance beds with durable native plantings that stabilize soil and support pollinators, book a free estimate. We schedule quickly around West Seattle, Admiral, and Alki-area properties and provide clear timelines and transparent pricing.
Email: neatandtidyseattle@gmail.com
Phone: 206-538-9344
Licensed • Bonded • Insured
We work clean, practical, and sustainable — get a tidy native yard that actually lasts.
