A beautifully landscaped yard is an extension of the home. As well as increasing the property value, creating a design to suit both your needs and the needs of the land can help you get the most enjoyment out of your yard.

First, you’ll want to spend some time daydreaming, creating a ‘wish’ list of all the things you’d love to have in your space. Besides neighboring and public gardens for inspiration, there are lots of great books and websites full of ideas and suggestions to help you get started.

So how do you create the most appropriate design? Start with organizing your space and determine what is the function of the area. What already exits? Do you want a total yard renovation or just an area makeover? What can be changed and what is permanent? For instance, a large tree shading the entire back yard may not have to be removed to get more sun. Its possible to strategically remove a few limbs and have the light shine through. Will the space be used for recreation or does it just need to be visually appealing? How much maintenance do you want to commit to? A yard is ever changing with the seasons. Plants and trees will grow to their mature heights so make sure to plan for this in the design.

After you’ve decided what the space or areas will be used for, determine the style and set a budget. A map of the area(s)is created and used as a base to set the design plan into action. A soil test may be necessary if you are going to be planting new plants or changing an areas purpose, then soil amendments are made to suit the needs of what is going to be planted. And finally plants, irrigation and water features, and hardscapes such as fences, decks, and rock walls, are implemented based on the information compiled during the planning stages. Having a plan gives you the option of implementing the design all at once or in stages.

Benefits of landscape design

• Increases property value
• Helps you get the most enjoyment out of your yard by using the space appropriately for your needs
• Can be designed to restore, preserve, or enhance wildlife habitat in urban areas
• Gives you the option of implementing the design all at once or in stages
• Saves time and money by determining the level of maintenance from the start