Landscapinginvolves more than merely placing a shrub or tree wherever you want. When you approach landscaping with only the idea of planting what you like, the result will look like a collection of randomly chosen plants placed haphazardly. Misplacing plants or planting them near other plants that have a detrimental effect on them can cause you to lose money or spend more time maintaining your yard. This does not mean you need a strict landscaping plan. Rather, follow a few simple guidelines and enjoy designing “on the fly.”
Add a Focal Point
Your lawn’s focal point should be considered carefully. It could be an architectural feature, like a gazebo or patio, or something more natural, like a tree or water feature. Whatever you choose, highlight it by ensuring its texture and color are slightly different than the rest of your landscaping. However, you do not want it to “stick out.” Ensure it still flows with the rest of your plan. You are not limited to one focal point. You can create small areas of your landscaping with specific focus points in mind, such as a pool or an outdoor kitchen.
Plan for Access
To enjoy your landscape you must be able to access it. Ensure that paths are included and are made large enough to accommodate a mower or other large lawn equipment. If you plan on having trees removed or adding a concrete patio, plan for larger machinery access, such as a large gate in your fence.
Ditch the Formal Landscape
Formal landscaping focuses on symmetry. This is difficult and expensive to replicate and maintain. For example, if you have two identical trees at either corner of the house and one dies, it could be very difficult and expensive to find a matching replacement. You may even have to replace both trees. If you incorporate formal hedging, it must be continually maintained to ensure it keeps it shape and symmetry. Instead, opt for a more sporadic design featuring several varieties of plants that can easily be replaced if damage or disease occurs.
Choose the Right Plants
Landscaping foliage comes in many varieties, colors, shapes, and sizes. Before purchasing and planting, fully understand the plant you are choosing. For example, you should know the plant’s full-grown size, ensuring you give it enough room to grow and expand once planted. It is also important to understand and fully consider the time and money that will need to be spent pruning and maintaining the plants you select.
Help With Your Landscaping Project
If you have decided to landscape your lawn, consider the help of the expert landscapers at Juniper Landscape Company in San Diego. With extensive experience planning, developing, and maintaining a wide range of landscapes, our experts can help you plan and choose the right plants for your design.