Residential Landscaping Ideas
All landscapes need some degree of upkeep; native and natural designs require the least work and also more formal plans the most. A well-planned landscape contains just the ideal blend of plants, committed outdoor space and landscape elements such as patios, fences, arbors, walls and outbuildings. Your residential landscaping plan should revolve around how long you would like to dedicate to maintenance, how much money you need to invest and what you would like to achieve with the space you have available.
Create Curb Appeal
Landscaping that enhances your home’s curb appeal is one of the best investments you can make. Transform your front lawn by first focusing on the entrance walkway. It should clearly lead your guests to the front door. Always create the path wide enough for 2 adults to comfortably walk side. Utilize walkway substances that complement and improve your home’s facade, color and any front porch decorator elements. Well-planned lighting retains the walkway or entrance safe to browse in nighttime darkness.
Easy-Care Landscapes
You can minimize upkeep by installing landscape elements, plants and hardscapes that need little to no upkeep. Consider installing an automatic irrigation system to decrease the need for hand watering. Large sculptured regions of paving, no lawn and hard evergreen shrubs also cut back on upkeep. Start with good plants and soil that are well-suited to your climate and weather conditions, and that are either drought-resistant or drought-tolerant. Mulching seasonally reduces the need for weeding.
Treatment for Small Spaces
If your home and lot are modest, creating a pocket-size yard or lawn can still pack a vibrant and dynamic punch. Even a balcony, rooftop or courtyard can grow to be a stunning and functional space. Smaller spaces are naturally cozy and inviting, so capitalize on this by bringing in each plant into sharper focus using containers and raised planting beds. As you’ve got less to buy, invest in plants that are naturally compact, colorful and stunning. Your patio furniture should be in scale with its surroundings, and be sure to keep walkways easily and securely accessible.
Garden Habitat
If you have decided to pass on the rose, vegetable or herb garden, think about a welcoming area for visiting birds, mammals, butterflies and other creatures. Balance is the key for a backyard wildlife or habitat garden. Butterfly gardens and bird sanctuaries generally have little if any lawn and several trimmed borders. Instead, plant beds of native annuals and perennials. Walkways covered with bark, gravel or pavers can be surrounded by clover or moss. Ornamental grasses provide food and shelter for wildlife, even though a birdbath, fountain or little pond offers water and a focal point in your landscape.