Landscaping basics
With spring's arrival many people are looking at their yards and wondering what they could possibly be doing with them. Whether you have lived in your home with an established yard or are a new homeowner trying to decide how to landscape the task can seem overwhelming. But there are a few easy steps to take that can get you on the way to having that beautifully landscaped yard. Here are some landscaping basics-
To get started on your landscaping, the first and most important step is to decide what kind of plants you want and then to put together a master plan of how everything lays out. You can tackle this yourself or consult a professional. Many nurseries will offer home consultations either free or for a small fee. It is important to understand that to have a written plan (like house plans) you will have to pay more than for just a consultation. Keep in mind though that it is important that you put your plan on paper so you have a unified vision. Without a plan your landscape may look piecemeal. In addition most people landscape over time and having a written plan can be helpful to consult as you go. You can start by focusing on the most important project first that may be a highly visible part of your property such as a driveway or doorway. Another way to direct your landscaping is to design your landscaping around something you are going to build or is already in place such as an arbor, wall, fence or patio.
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However you decide to proceed, here are some important things to keep in mind-
- Successful gardeners know those healthy plants and a striking landscape or garden start with healthy soil. To support vigorous plant life your soil must contain the proper balance of nutrients and minerals and provide adequate drainage at the same time. If you need to you can add compost or other organic mixtures to make your soil rich, balanced and ready for planting.
- Select plants that naturally do well with your climate and rainfall. There are many guides to selecting plants that will do well in your growing zone. A growing zone is defined as a geographical area that has similar climate and length of growing season. So for example if you are located in zone 5 you will want to choose zone 5 plants. It is also important that no matter what plants you choose that you make sure the location fits the plant you choose when it comes to sun. Be sure that you know if a plant needs full sun that you do not put it in partial shade and vice versa.
- Also be sure that you do not over-plant or plant too closely together. Plants grow some very quickly and the space will come in handy and look better as well. Keep in mind that you are planting a landscape that you want to enjoy for years to come. Having a long view of what you want to accomplish will help you make better landscaping decisions.
- Make sure as you plan your design that you take note of views you may want to obscure or focal points you may want to create or accentuate. This can lead to the overall feeling of your landscape. For example you may want to create a tropical oasis full of privacy or an open English style garden with lots of room to stroll and admire the plantings. If you do have areas that you wish to cover up keep in mind that the right plant in the right place can work wonders. By following these basics you are well on the way to beautifying your landscape.
