Want to create a beautiful oasis on your very own on your property? The design of your landscape plays an important role in the aesthetic value of your property as well as its functional value. A well planned and executed landscape is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional throughout changing seasons and can be enjoyed year round. Achieving such a landscape can be a challenge especially if you have no prior experience in landscape design. In this post, we share the best landscape advice from expert landscapers for beginners .
How to Start Landscaping from Scratch
If you’re just starting out with landscape design, you may be wondering where to start. Below, we share top expert landscape tips for beginners that you can get started with right now.
Start with a Plan
You can’t achieve a beautiful and functional landscape without proper planning. Your plan will give you clear guidance throughout the project. When we meet with clients for the first time, we start off drawing up a plan.
Survey your plot to determine what space is available to you. Draw up a plan of the landscape as it currently is. Include features such as buildings, driveways, trees and shrubs that form the backbone of your landscape. Be sure to indicate the location of fixtures such as your septic system and buried utility lines. You should also take note of the movement of shadows on your landscape throughout the day.
Make a Wish List
Now that you know what you’re working with, you can determine what you want to achieve. Here is where the dreaming starts. Ask yourself what your ideal landscape would look like. What do you want to achieve? How do you want to use your space? Do you want an outdoor living space for entertaining guests? Are you more interested in creating a traditional flower garden? Do you want to have your private orchard with a variety of fruit trees?
You can search online for images that inspire you and include them in your vision board. Take note of the fact that landscapes change throughout the year as the season changes. You should consider how you will use your landscape throughout the year.
Choose Your Style
Determine the style you want to achieve with your landscape. This will be greatly influenced by the architectural style of your home. Some examples include:
- Formal styles – these are landscapes that include straight lines and achieve symmetry in their design. They may include elegant focal points such as fountains and statues. These gardens are refined and manicured.
- Informal styles – these are less formal landscapes. They are designed for relaxing and have a comfortable vibe. Trees and shrubs have their natural shapes and there is little emphasis on symmetry.
- Natural styles – these are low maintenance landscapes. They allow nature to take its course and give off a natural and chaotic but energetic vibe.
Assessing Your Needs
Determine your household’s needs and how you can cater to them within the design of your landscape. For example, do you have pets? Do they need space to play? Do you want to create a space for young children to play? Do you need a paved walkway to avoid having to clean mud tracks in the house?
Hardscape, Then Plant
Before you get started with planting, you should take care of the hardscapes. Ensure that all hardscapes are installed before you start planting. You will otherwise lose your investment as installation could result in the destruction of your plants.
Consult a Landscape Designer
Are you just getting started with landscaping? Want to achieve a beautiful landscape? Start with the easy landscaping ideas for beginners we have shared above. You should also get in touch with GMC Landscapes for a landscape designer in Seattle . Our team is committed to working in close cooperation with clients to achieve a landscape design that meets their specific needs and preferences. Our team makes achieving even the most elaborate landscape designs easy and affordable.
