- Invest in a plan.
Ever notice the outdoor spaces of some homes just don’t “go together”? Don’t let that happen to you. A small budget for a professional plan saves time (and money) and will have your outdoor spaces looking magnificent. - Plant in curves and angles.
Straight lines are good for some things, but not always for plantings. Curves and variety are more interesting to see and enjoy. - Follow plant guidelines on sun and shade and water.
Not paying attention to these fundamental steps results in … replanting new plants as the originals will not survive. - Hardscaping is essential.
Unless your outdoor spaces are perfect (which is practically never), it’s likely that you’ll want to further “define” your garden by shaping the area with a patio, terracing, walkways and other elements. - Give your plants appropriate space.
Especially near the house or driveway. They will grow and can create problems down the road. - Consider irrigation and landscape lighting.
You’ve invested in your outdoor spaces. Now keep them alive and spotlight your efforts for everyone to enjoy. - Nature’s beauty is most attractive when allowed to grow naturally.
Gardeners and landscapers often will try to make plantings “perfect” by pruning into neatly shaped circles or other precisely manicured designs. The best plantings are more attractive when left to grow naturally and are hand pruned correctly. - The right sod or grass is essential.
Fescue is better in some shade, wetter areas. Bermuda is better in hot full sun. Zoysia can take a bit of both. - Trees are excellent parts of a good design.
Choose wisely. The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago, the next best time is now. Time is magic when it comes to a lush landscape that is well designed. - Do something different – and better. Use native plants and edible plants.
Blueberries, pears, figs, rosemary, etc. It’s an amazing treat to enjoy your own home-grown organic fruits and veggies and feed the bees and butterflies with native plants.
What’s really important when thinking about your outdoor spaces? Mark offers his TOP TEN things to consider.
