Completely redesigning and landscaping your garden is a monumental task, no matter what shape or size your space is, but the results can of course be breathtaking. It’s why many of us look to do it at this time of the year.
There’s an awful lot to think about when it does come to panning out your garden though, with every aspect to be decided upon. That means the layout, the planting and the flooring, for example whether you opt for something traditional and sophisticated like limestone paving slabs, think about gravel, or choose the likes of decking. And that’s just one decision to make!
Before you get started with your garden, here are five top tips for things you should consider before landscaping commence investigated by ARCHISCENE Magazine’s Landscaping Editor:
Budget and Cost Considerations
The place to start is naturally within the budget you have. You need to establish a realistic budget that works with your financial resources and the aim of the project. The cost of landscaping a garden can be significant but it does also vary based upon the scope of work, the materials and the labour resource required to complete the job.
Research the costs of what it might be, while also plot out what are the essentials for the garden. For example, the lawn and patio may be more important to you than planting. Once you’ve established you priorities you can then allocate budget to the various aspects of your garden more efficiently.
Finally, do plan for contingencies. There may well be unexpected costs so having a kitty for this can come in very handy.
Assess Your Garden’s Characteristics
What may also shape the landscaping of your garden will also be the characteristics of your garden. The likes of size, topography and soil types can all have a say in your garden.
Testing your soil quality is a big part of this as it will guide your plant selection, while things such as sunlight and shade and drainage in your garden can also have a say on your plans for the garden.
Define Your Garden’s Purpose and Style
Once you’ve done the above you can then start to design your garden a little more. The first part of this is defining the garden’s purpose. Consider whether it’s for entertaining, relaxation, growing plants and vegetables or enhancing the curb appeal of a property.
From there you can divide your garden up and create functional zones, with different zones for different activities.
Alongside this, you may also want to think about styling. You’ll want this to complement the architecture of your home, while also suiting your own tastes and styles.
Plant Selection and Maintenance
Once your areas are complete and you’re aware of the soil quality, you can begin to think about the plants you wish to grow in your garden. Consider the time you have on your hands set aside for landscaping your garden. If you don’t have plenty of time on a weekly basis, then looking for low maintenance plants is the best option, while if you’re looking to spend lots of time in the garden, your options open up a lot more.
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Additionally, landscaping your garden with thoughtful design can enhance both its beauty and functionality. Incorporate pathways, stone walls, or water features to create a more structured space. These elements not only add aesthetic value but also help in organizing plant areas and can reduce maintenance by controlling plant spread and simplifying access for care. Select plants that complement the existing landscape and can thrive in the local climate and soil conditions to ensure your garden remains vibrant and manageable.
Long-Term Planning and Sustainability
Think about the long-term sustainability of your landscaping design. Consider environmental factors, such as water conservation, biodiversity, and ecological impact. This will help your garden be a place to enjoy long term, while also welcoming in wildlife, where you’ll enjoy spotting the birds and the bees, as well as other creatures. To promote water conservation, implement systems like rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation, which efficiently manage water usage. Choose native plants that naturally thrive in your region’s climate and soil conditions, as they require less water and care compared to non-native species. This approach not only reduces maintenance but also supports local wildlife, providing habitats and food sources. Furthermore, integrating elements such as mulch and permeable paving can enhance soil health and decrease water runoff, further contributing to a sustainable ecosystem.
By creating a diverse planting scheme while landscaping your garden, you also enhance the ecological resilience of your garden, making it more adaptable to changing conditions and helping to maintain ecological balance. Consider also installing bird feeders and nesting boxes to attract and support local bird populations. These practices ensure that your garden not only serves as a beautiful and peaceful retreat but also plays a crucial role in conserving the environment and supporting biodiversity.
Totally feeling this! Redoing the garden is one massive task but it’s the perfect project to tackle now with summer around the corner. It’s like every little decision from choosing between limestone slabs or decking adds up to create this perfect outdoor vibe. Just thinking about the transformation gets me excited, even though it’s a ton of work to plan everything out.
Before you jump in, definitely think about how all these choices fit with your lifestyle and your home’s look. I went through this last year and while it was a bit of a rollercoaster with the budget and all, the final look was so worth it. Just picture chilling in your newly done up garden when it’s all lush and lovely—it’s the best motivator!