Three Landscape Design Tips For Beginners
Posted on: 26 February 2015
With thousands of plant, flower and grass combinations to choose from, landscaping can be a very enjoyable creative outlet. Unfortunately, it can be pretty daunting. But whether you're landscaping a townhouse stoop, a sprawling lawn for a home, or a neatly trimmed business yard, a well-designed landscape should always start with a little planning. Here's a look at some landscape design tips for beginners.
Tip #1: Plan Ahead
This step may sound simple, but it's incredibly crucial. Many people dive right in to a landscaping project, and end up with something that just won't grow successfully. Finding out what type of soil you have should be the very first thing you do. Analyze your yard. Watch the sun and shade patterns, find out where any underground water, sewer, or electrical lines are, and pay attention to how rain water drains. All of these factors will determine what grows best, and where.
Tip #2: Create A Great First Impression There's a reason real estate agents speak so often about "curb appeal." It's the very first impression people have of your home! Your lawn and landscape is a huge part of curb appeal. Make sure the path to your front door is approachable and warm, and it's well lit and wide (not crowded with shrubbery). Your landscaping should reflect the "feel" of your home. It's always good to have at least a small connection with your neighborhood overall.
Tip #3: Use Color on Purpose
When many people plant flowers or plants, they choose based on what looks "pretty," or their favorite color, and end up with different colors splashed all across the lawn. But would you take this approach inside your home? Would you just use colors without a whole lot of thought? Use colors on your landscape just like you would in your house - with purpose. Cool colors like light blue will make an area seem larger or farther away, while intense colors like red and orange do the opposite and draw attention to a spot. Planning your landscape colors is more important than most people realize.
When you're landscaping yourself, keep a few things in mind: your budget, the size of your yard, the type of soil you have and the plant region you're in, your skill level, and how much time you have to devote to maintenance. With these factors considered, plus these tips, you're already well on your way to the perfectly landscaped lawn. For more information, contact Alpine Rock and Block or a similar company.
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