How to Landscape: A Beginners Guide to the Basics
With the growing demand for space, gardens and lawns have become a popular means of landscaping. If you’ve recently purchased your first home or are planning on building something from scratch, you’ll likely be looking to add some green spaces to the backyard. As well as providing an area of natural beauty, landscaping your yard can also help to increase the value of your property by increasing its appeal and curb appeal. Understanding how to landscape can be easier than you think and with a little research, planning and patience you will soon be enjoying the benefits. This guide will give you all the tips and tricks you need to get started with landscape design. From understanding what type of soil you have in your yard to choosing the right plants and trees - read on to learn everything you need to know about designing your very own garden
What is Landscape Design?
Landscape design is the process of designing outdoor areas for both indoor and outdoor living spaces. Here are the key components of landscape design:
Structural - the landscape architectural elements of the space including the lawn, patio, and hardscapes, such as pathways and walkways.
Functional - the specific uses of space such as a kitchen, dining room, or outdoor living room.
Visual - the overall composition and color scheme of a space.
How to Landscape: Step by Step Guide
With the wide range of options available, it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to designing your new outdoor space. Here are some landscaping tips to help you get started with your new project.
Before You Dig - So you’ve decided to get your hands dirty and get planting. But before you get too excited, it’s important to remember that your soil type will have a big impact on the plants you can grow in your yard. To get the most from your new garden you’ll need to be sure you’re planting in the right soil type for your region. Soil type is determined by the soil’s structure, how much available water the soil holds, its pH level and how rocky it is. Finding the right soil for your yard is a crucial part of successful landscaping. Make sure you know what type of soil you’re working with before you get started on your landscaping project.
Planting Guide - Now that you know what type of soil you have in your yard, you can move on to choosing the right plants for the space.
When to Plant - One of the most important things to remember when planning your landscaping is when to plant. While there is no exact rule, most landscapers recommend that homeowners plant their gardens between April and June and between September and November. Why? Well, these times are considered the “peak growing months”. During these times, your plants will receive the most sunlight and be at their healthiest. During other times of the year, your plants may not receive enough sunlight and nutrients to thrive.
How Much Does Landscaping Cost? One of the biggest questions homeowners have when it comes to landscaping is how much it will cost. While it may be tempting to go all out from the get-go, it’s better to start small. Simply getting your feet wet by planting an herb garden or adding a few pots to your balcony railing can be a great way to get your landscaping ideas in motion. It’s important to remember that the best way to budget for landscaping is to simply start! Setting a small budget for your project will help you stay organized and prevent you from overspending. If you’re still struggling to find a budget, you can always opt for DIY landscaping.
When To Consider a Landscape Design? There is no specific time frame when you should start planning your landscaping. While it’s important to consider the season when planting your garden, it’s also important to remember that this is a long-term project. There’s no need to rush the planning process when you can simply wait and get started in the spring or fall. You should also consider your yard’s geographical location, your budget and your own personal style when deciding when to get started.
When To Consider a Landscape Design?
As previously mentioned, there is no specific time frame when you should start planning your landscaping. However, there are some key times when you should consider landscaping your yard.
Spring Season - Spring is the ideal season for planting, as it falls between September and November. This is generally when the majority of your plants will be growing and thriving.
Fall Season - Fall is a popular time for planting, as it falls between September and November. Similar to spring, this season is also when your plants will be in their peak health and growth.
Summer Season - While landscaping in the summer can be a fun activity, you should be careful not to overdo it. While you may be tempted to beautify your yard with water features and colorful plants, you should be wary of damaging them.
When To Hire a Professional Landscaper?
If you have been researching landscaping and are finally ready to get your hands dirty, then you’re well on your way to designing your dream garden. While the DIY approach can be a great way to get started, it’s important to remember that landscaping is a long-term process. This means that you may need to hire a professional to help you with the more complex aspects of your project. Many homeowners find that hiring a professional for their landscape services is well worth the investment. Why spend your weekends digging, building and maintaining your new garden when you can spend them enjoying the benefits of a professionally designed space? When it comes to landscaping, it’s important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The type of landscaping you choose will depend on your budget, the look you are trying to achieve and the type of space you have to work with.
Tips for Getting Started in Landscaping
Make It Easy - Before you get started on plant shopping, it’s important to remember that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get started with landscaping. There are many easy ways to get your feet wet and get started with your new project. Lawn care is an easy and inexpensive way to get started with your landscape project. Start small and move on up.
Start with an herb garden - One of the simplest ways to get your hands dirty with landscaping is to start with a herb garden. Herbs are a great way to add flavor and color to your space, while also helping to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Keep It Interesting - The best type of landscaping is one that is interesting and visually stimulating. This will keep your attention and help to make your space stand out from the crowd.
Think Small - While it’s important to remember that landscaping is a long-term investment, it’s also important to remember that starting small is better than starting big.
Think of Your Space - Before you get started on your new landscaping project, it’s important to take time to think about your space and what you want to achieve.
Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Benefits - Remember, landscaping is a great way to add beauty, value and enjoyment to your home. Make sure you don’t forget to enjoy your new space and appreciate the work that has gone into creating it.
For more info visit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Landscaping
