When the weather turns warm, many people begin making plans to upgrade their landscaping. They can’t wait to get outside and do some work. Some people do so because they plan to sell their homes, while others want to get more enjoyment from their property.
When it comes to yard makeover ideas, the possibilities are endless. Each person must determine what they want and need from their landscaping. The following tips and ideas for a gorgeous outdoor retreat are an excellent starting point. Choose one or two ideas and incorporate them into the yard to see what a difference they can make.
Linear Elements
When nature is allowed to take its course, natural curves are present. Offset these curves by adding linear elements to the landscape. Add a crisp ending to a pathway to give the yard a manicured look while reducing the amount of maintenance needed to keep it looking its best.
Add a Natural Pool
Many homeowners choose to install a pool in their backyard and opt for a standard shape. Think outside the box and consider installing a pool with a more natural shape. Lakes and ponds don’t have straight lines or symmetrical curves, so why should the pool? It will blend more naturally into the landscape, particularly when native landscaping is used around the perimeter.
Establish Zones
Establish zones for different outdoor activities, and use different surfaces to delineate them. Brick pavers can be used for various purposes, including outdoor kitchens, while mulch is more appropriate for the children’s play areas. The different surfaces add visual interest to the landscape. Another option is to use plants and shrubs between the various zones.
Paint the Front Door
Paint the front door black to transform the look of the home and update the appeal of the property. While this isn’t a landscaping feature, it significantly adds to the home’s value. Furthermore, it serves as the perfect backdrop for landscape additions, as the neutral color doesn’t take away from the plants, shrubs, and hardscapes.
Fending
Add a fence to the property to give it an updated look. The architectural style of the home should be considered when choosing the fencing material. For example, a wooden picket fence would look out of place on a modern, minimalist house, but would be ideal for a cottage.
Sculptural Greenery
Remove overgrowth and replace it with sculptural greenery. Boxwood hedges are an excellent idea. Topiaries are found in countless gardens today and may be perfect for taking your landscape to the next level.
Flower Borders
Add a row of shrubs, such as hydrangeas, to the landscape rather than installing a traditional fence. The bright colors add to the landscape, and plants are easier to maintain than flower beds. A person spends less time upkeeping the yard and more time enjoying it.
Choose a Lawn Alternative
For those who want minimal maintenance when it comes to the landscape, consider planting moss in shady spots or Corsican mint in sunny areas and forget mowing. These grass alternatives typically require little maintenance. However, they can overtake the yard, as some are invasive. Learn whether they are permitted in your area before purchasing and planting them.
These ideas serve as an excellent starting point, but there are countless others a person might wish to use. Consult with an experienced landscaper to discover additional ways to create an outdoor haven that the entire family will enjoy. With their help, any property can become a gorgeous outdoor retreat.
