Whether you are looking to increase the value of your home or simply make it more appealing, a properly landscaped yard is the first step. Whether your goal is to complete the landscape project independently or enlist the help of a gardening pro, this article will provide you with some valuable information that can get you started.
Sketch out a design before you dig your first hole on a landscaping project. This will give you a visual idea of what you want, how it will look, and what kind and amount of materials your project will require. You will also find it easier to change a sketch than to actually change your landscape.
A softly curving border can give just the right bit of focus and punch that your landscape needs. Curved beds are all the rage these days, while right angles are considered boring and passe. This is an inexpensive way to give a more contemporary appearance to your garden.
Test your soil before gardening or starting a landscaping project. This way, you will know what has to be put in or what has to go, and you can work on these things prior to planting. Doing this can help to ensure that your plants get a great start and grow to be happy.
Consider granite for your surfaces when installing a kitchen outdoors. Granite is a low maintenance material so while it might cost you more during the initial install, it will be worth the money later on since you won’t be faced with constant bills for replacements and repairs.
When planning your landscape, consider speaking with a professional. While you won’t need them to do everything, a short consultation and discussion might help you avoid costly mistakes. Especially if you lack knowledge in the landscaping field, this is a step you should consider.
Using a drip watering system is a great way to keep your garden well watered. This type of irrigation is very easy to put in, and it lets you moderate the water flow to your plants for continuous or off-and-on watering. This is also a better way to efficiently water your plants effectively.
Before going to the local lawn and garden store to pick up landscaping materials, you should get the correct measurements of the area you plan on working in. This makes it much easier to determine how much of each item you actually need. This will ensure that you purchase just the right amount of all materials.
Online shopping is often overlooked as a landscaping resource. However, shopping online is both easier and it allows you a wider selection than any local stores.
Don’t focus on spending as little money as possible. While you can find fairly inexpensive supplies to do your project, the quality is probably not going to be what you are looking for. Specialty stores may be a little bit more expensive; however, for newcomers to the subject of landscaping, they can provide a wealth of information and support.
When modifying your yard during landscaping projects, make sure you take existing structures into consideration before you ever touch your shovel to the dirt. Make sure you’re aware of where components of your home such as gutters, cables, and air conditioners are positioned so that your landscaping modifications don’t infringe upon them. Check with your city or county prior to digging so that you know you won’t be damaging any underground lines.
Peat moss can help to keep your plants thriving. Peat moss provides nutrients for plants which might be lacking. In addition, peat moss provides a nice contrast for other areas in your garden.
As you mow, let some of the grass clippings stay wherever they fell. This will give your lawn vital nutrients it will need when the grass begins to decompose and you won’t need to apply as much fertilizer.
Consult with garden and landscape professionals prior to beginning. Even if you landscape yourself, talk to a pro for more reassurance. No matter what your skill level is, a professional will have advice which only can come from their vast experience. Professionals can also help even the most experienced landscaper to avoid making mistakes.
Ground Cover
Use native plants for a landscape that offers easy maintenance. Plant species that naturally thrive in your area and its climate are a lot more simple to take care of when compared to foreign ones. Native plants usually don’t need to be irrigated as much, either, so you’ll save water and have lower water bills.
Large shade trees look great, but it may be difficult to plant flowers that bloom underneath its shaded area. Try using ground cover in the place of flowers. Not only will this make your yard more beautiful, it’s simple to keep up with. Hostas, ivy and sweet woodruff are all excellent ground cover options.
Don’t be too impatient! People often buy a house and want to entirely rip out the existing landscaping to just start from scratch. It can be wise to wait a few months to get a feel for how the existing garden grows, while taking stock of all the elements. Then, decide which pieces to keep or remove. A plant that looks ugly during the winter might look extremely nice during the spring and summer.
If you are doing a landscaping project alone, make sure to stop and estimate costs first. Plan out your entire project, writing down a list containing everything you are going to need. Take some time to figure out where you should purchase each of the items from. Prices can vary greatly from place to place. Figure out where you can get high quality goods without spending a lot of money.
When planning your landscape, ensure that you provide enough space for plant growth. While a small seedling tree may look good now next to a fountain, over time it will be far to close to both the fountain and your home. Think about how a plant will change as it matures, and leave enough space between everything that you plant.
Any form of landscaping, whether it’s simply adding a few shrubs and flowers, or giving your garden a complete makeover, will greatly improve the look of your home. You will be envied by your neighbors by sprucing up your landscaping. Apply what you’ve learned here now.
Get a good quality fertilizer to put in your yard. Just be sure to stick to one single fertilizer so that you can avoid chemical reactions, which might be harmful to your yard and family. Read reviews of different products, or better yet, talk with a landscaper at your local nursery to determine which products are best suited to your area. You should use fertilizer before starting your project.