Before beginning your next landscaping project, consider sketching out how you would like it to look first. A sketch can help you to visualize the results and have a better idea of the materials you will need to complete the project. Making your mistakes on paper first can save you lots of time later on.
Landscaping, no matter the scope, requires a bit of foresight and previous knowledge. Letting enthusiasm overrule good sense is the surest way to landscaping disaster, so take the time to read this article and do your project right.
Most people don’t think about buying landscaping products online. Not only is it simpler and more convenient to purchase supplies online, but you may have access to a wider variety of plants for your landscaping project that you could never find in a nearby retail store or nursery.
Edging flower beds can help to update your yard quickly. Remember that curved beds are seen as more contemporary, as well as sharp corners. Cutting fresh edges is an inexpensive project that can make a big impact on how your lawn and flower bed looks.
When beginning a very large landscape project by yourself, think about consulting with someone who specializes in landscape design architecture so you get an idea of what material you will need for your design. They will give you tips and tricks that are invaluable to help you save money and shorten the duration of the project. Generally speaking, a professional consultation with a landscaper may cost you as much as $75.00; however, it will surely save you at least that much and probably more!
Try using native plants when you are landscaping. When you are landscaping your garden, try to use shrubs, flowers and tress that are in your local neighborhood. Native plants are most likely to thrive in your area because they have adapted to the local rainfall amounts and temperatures.
If your yard features a sizable tree, it may be tough to grow flowers beneath it. Rather than flowers, an interesting groundcover would be much more suitable. This can make your yard look beautiful, and it’s also easily maintainable. Hosta and sweet woodruff are excellent, long-lasting choices for this type of planting area.
If you include an outdoor kitchen in your backyard design, consider using granite for counters and other surfaces. While marble could cost less to you, you can place hot things on granite without damaging it and it doesn’t require a ton of maintenance.
Speak with a professional or two before you get started. Even if you’re landscaping yourself, it’s always good to consult a professional. Since they have more experience, they can give you advice on what not to do. If you are familiar with what to do, a second opinion is still helpful.
Install drip-irrigation as an easy way to keep your plants watered. This type of irrigation is very easy to put in, and it lets you moderate the water flow to your plants for continuous or off-and-on watering. This is also a better way to efficiently water your plants effectively.
Make sure you add in water to your design. It is easy to install a small pool, a pump or a fountain. If your budget will allow for it, a number of professionals can install a waterfall or a small pond quite reasonably. Water features can really draw the eye and provide a centerpiece to your project.
Test your soil before beginning your landscaping project. A soil test can determine if your soil is missing something is should have or has something it shouldn’t. In either case, you can address the problem before you begin landscaping. Your plants will thrive, and your landscaping will succeed beautifully.
Consider everything from climate to water demands when you are planning a new landscaping project. Know the resource demands of your area, as many areas carry water restrictions. Target plants that will thrive on the watering schedule you will have to adhere to.
Many people forget that much of their landscaping planning and shopping can be done online. However, shopping online is both easier and it allows you a wider selection than any local stores.
Fall colors should also be considered when you design your landscape. Many people think only about summer and spring colors, but many plants offer beautiful color in the fall, and flowers such as pansies bloom during fall and winter. When September and October come around, you’ll know you made a good choice.
Knowing how to time your purchases at the right time can save you a lot of money. For instance, winter is the best time to purchase lumber, while shrubs, mulch, and tress should be bought later on in the season. As new plants become available, wait a couple of years before purchasing them, so the prices will be lower.
Don’t neglect the importance of function when planning your landscape design. As an example, make sure that your family and guests will always have a space to park their cars and walk through your yard. Don’t plant items very close to your house or spiders and bees may be able to get inside during the summer.
When it comes to landscaping, don’t just stick to a few types of plants. This will be helpful in the case your yard gets invaded by a disease of insect. By selecting a greater number of plants, you increase the odds of your landscape surviving. Diversity in landscaping is vital to plant health.
Although neighborly camaraderie is nice, having your own space can be soothing and relaxing. Planting shrubs and trees or simply erecting a fence can give you the privacy you need. The options are endless if you wish to include them in your landscaping plans.
Always measure out how much room you have to work with before going out to buy plants. Knowing your measurements will help you understand how many plants you need, rather than guessing incorrectly at the store. This simple step can ensure you do not end up with either a shortage or surplus of materials.
Most people use plants to border the house or their property. This is great, but it is also great to plant them throughout your property. You can increase the visual depth of your plantings this way. It will also give the illusion that the house is further from the street.
If you are going to modify your landscaping design, keep existing structures in mind. Be sure to incorporate structures such as gutters, sprinklers, and air conditioners into your landscaping plan and sketches. You can make a quick call to the city to verify where things are so you don’t damage anything.
You might seek the advice of a landscape designer. Do your research by asking designers for examples of other jobs they have done. Do not hire a landscape designer without getting a firm estimate of the cost and schedule of your project. Professional references should also be requested. Not only should they have personal references, they also need professional ones. Talk to previous customers, and check if the landscape designer stayed on budget and completed the job within the agreed time-frame.
It is often prudent to go with lower-cost products. Things such as containers, mulch, and regular perennials are things you want to buy cheaper, as the costly versions are the same. Remember that plants should be looked over well, However. The cheaper the plants are, the more closely you will probably have to inspect them to find ones that are in good condition.
Even a small backyard can be made lovely if the space is well utilized. Use this space to make small and concentrated places of interest. A decorative focus, such as a sun dial or bird bath, can give a small landscaping project an attractive appearance. If you choose your plants carefully, you can ensure that your flowers bloom in sequence – creating color nearly year-round.
It’s been said that landscaping a yard is a lot like renovating a room in your house–a small amount of knowledge will go a very long way. Read all that you can and build a foundation with it. Make use of it as you plan and lay out your landscape, and begin on a positive foot.