Landscaping

When considering the prospect of moving or improving a home, landscaping is one of many important aspects of the exterior of the home. Landscape is one of the most vital facets of the commonly accepted term “curb appeal”. On stepping out of a car, every visitor will develop a feel of the atmosphere of your home through its landscape. Whether your choice of landscaping design takes a formal approach or that of a country cottage, the impression will be made before the front door is opened.

When embarking on your landscaping project, begin with a general idea of the mood and tone you wish to create upon completion of this project. Start by asking yourself these questions? Do I prefer the feel of a formal garden, with little maintenance, or do I enjoy the whimsical nature of a country garden, where I could enjoy the weekly upkeep? At this point, the most important question you need to answer is how much time you are able to devote to maintaining your garden. A landscaping contractor will not only install your dream yard, but will stay with you to ensure the garden is flourishing and well-cared for.

Another item to consider is what feature of the lawn or home to conceal or accentuate. Ideally, windows should be accentuated, rather than concealed, and the opposite is typically true of any utility structure that may be visible. Concealing windows is not advisable for security reasons, and keeping materials a safe distance from the home will discourage any pests, snakes, or insect infestations. With these concepts in mind, create a rough idea of the flow you would like to see created. Your contractor will advise you on landscaping materials that are suitable for your climate that will provide the basic structure of your lawn.

Accentuate the positive: what is your favorite spot in the yard? Are your eyes drawn to it? A landscaping professional will help you convert that sweet spot into the talk to the neighborhood. The driveway may be edged, the flower beds may be outlined with live borders or with edging, and container gardening may be utilized to carry your new theme all the way to the front door. Once a rough draft of the landscape layout is drawn, you can begin to look at specific colors and materials.

Color is generally a personal choice, but don’t forget that the color of your home will affect the finished product. A landscape professional will select materials that will mature to the desired, while still planting for your immediate gratification. Many growers mark their plants with suggested light, watering needs and planting density. For many amateurs, these guidelines can be intimidating, and many find it difficult to meet both long- and short-term needs. When planting annuals, for instance, many homeowners neglect to carefully consider these recommendations and are often left with bare gardens.

A well-designed garden is truly a work of art. As the seasons change and the years go by, your garden should blossom and mature to reflect the care it has been given. “Curb appeal” is not a concept better left to spring and summer. Your contractor will be sure that your landscaping satisfies you all year.