How You Can Turn Your Lawn Into The Garden Landscape Of Your Dreams

Posted on September 12, 2012 in landscaping

TIP! Before you begin your new landscaping project, you should sketch out what you desire it to look like. Sketching your ideas out first will help you visualize what you want the results to be, and therefore, you will know what materials you might need.

Landscaping gives your house an aesthetic appeal and it places everything in the best spots. It should also be able to be functional and give space to the owner of the home. While this might seem like a lot to consider, read on for some simple tips that can help you to create a plan that meets all of your criteria.

TIP! Choose your location carefully when you are planning your landscaping project. Proper placement of plants should be considered.

Think of using water in your landscaping design. For instance, you could easily add a small pool fountain or install pumps. If you can spend a little extra, you can find a professional to install these items inexpensively. Adding a water structure to your landscape gives your yard a focal point.

TIP! Carefully select your greenery, because your whole landscaping project depends on it. Choose plants based on sunlight amounts, soil chemistry and water needs.

A landscape design will save you both time and money. Create a sketch of the plant arrangements and other features you want to add, along with measurements, so that you do not buy more than you need. Buying things impulsively may be a lot of fun, but it can take a serious toll on your wallet.

TIP! Create a landscaping design that is not only great to look at, but is functional. For example, don’t forget that you will need to leave areas for important structures such as a driveway or deck.

Plants can add privacy to your property. Ornamental grasses, evergreens, bamboo and other plants that grow tall make beautiful barriers that will keep nosey neighbors from peeking into your yard. Not only can they contain pets and kids, they can shield you from prying eyes.

TIP! Groundcover is a valuable addition when sprucing up your yard. Groundcover plants like vinca and phlox add beauty but they also deter weeds and minimize the area that needs frequent mowing.

Estimate the cost of your project before beginning. To create an accurate list of costs associated with your landscape design, include plants, mulch and equipment. Next, figure out where to purchase all these materials. Remember, the costs of these items may differ quite a bit from area to area. Call around to find the best prices available in your area.

TIP! Measure the area in which you will be working before you start buying plants or other supplies. You will be better able to estimate what you need when you get to the store.

If landscaping on a budget is what you’re considering then remember that the entire project can be broken down into segments. In fact, it is often a good idea to break your project up into different steps and even seasons. This is really a help when trying to finance your project. Make a list of what needs to be done and progress through the list as you can afford to do so.

TIP! Shopping online can save a chunk of your budget for plants. A lot of rare plants could be purchased at a lower cost online or by phone as opposed to you getting them from your local nursery.

Study the different techniques in landscape design. Anchor plants should be used, or perhaps a plant that you will use as a staple of your design throughout. Continuity is created this way. You also need to consider plant texture so that your design looks nice and varied. There is a wealth of information in landscaping books and websites but talking with other avid gardeners is the most enjoyable way to learn new things.

TIP! Many people place plants along the edges of their property and house. Plants make a wonderful border, but it is also important to place them in other places around the property as they can add texture, color and life to your entire yard.

Plants aren’t everything. As people develop their landscape plans, they often become focused on plants alone. It is important though that you remember to include non-living accents as well. A few examples include pottery, scattered rock, seating and bird fountains, all of which can give to your landscaping life no matter the season.

TIP! When using any variety of large plants for your landscape design, remember they will have shadows that could reduce sunlight for smaller plants. You can use these plants to create natural shade near your house or to improve the environment for smaller plants that thrive in shady areas.

If you intend to sell your house anytime soon, updating the landscaping and adding curb appeal will be an important factor. A healthy lawn, some pretty stones or maybe a birdbath will be more attractive than a boring and drab yard.

TIP! Cut costs by making purchases at the right time. Winter can be the best time to purchase lumber while mulch, trees and plants may be cheaper at the end of the season.

Be aware of your land’s hardiness zone, and buy plants that suit your landscape. After 22 years The USDA brought its zone map up to date in 2012. This map can help you select plants that are predicted to be tough enough to make it through your particular area’s lowest temperatures.

TIP! When it comes to landscape design, curved borders are king. When landscaping, think about creating a border with a sweeping curve.

For a bigger variety and cheaper prices, shop online. There are quite a few online garden centers that sell excellent items, and typically the price is much cheaper than at a store! Be sure to consult the reviews of previous customers before ordering to ensure that you will not be disappointed by the product you select or the manner in which it is shipped. Also, compare prices to ensure you’re getting the best price for the quality of product you receive.

TIP! Use native plants for a landscape that offers easy maintenance. Plants that have adapted to the local climate are much easier to take care of than foreign plants.

As you mow your lawn, leave behind some of the clippings. When the clipping decompose, they add nutrients back into the ground, which reduced the amount of fertilizer you will need to use.

TIP! Don’t forget that you should have paths and walkways within your landscape. An ugly driveway or sidewalk can detract from the look of your home.

You don’t have to pay a designer or landscaper for your projects, regardless of what many people believe. This will just end up costing you large amounts of money. But an hour or so consultation with a trusted landscaper may help you avoid costly mistakes later, and can help make your job much easier.

TIP! You can increase continuity in your landscape by using evergreens and foliage plants. Since most plants are only in bloom during certain seasons, your yard may seem dull or dead in the off-season if you don’t use foliage plants.

A successful landscaping design is one that incorporates everything from curb appeal to functional use. It also gives your home and yard a look of luxury, while staying within your budgetary constraints. The tips contained here can help you achieve all of this, and more. Put the information you have learned into action and you will be pleasantly rewarded.