Landscape Lessons Learned and Pitfalls to Avoid
If you're contemplating a new landscape, adding to or altering an existing one, you need to read this! Ten years after our initial landscape renovation and installation, here's a look at the garden, lessons learned, and pitfalls to avoid (Pt 2 of 2).
The front lawn in full April bloom (azaleas, snowflake viburnum, kousa dogwoods, liriope). Massing makes an impact!
First blooms of the season in our front landscape: Daffodils and PJM rhododendrons. Well-maintained landscaping can increase your curb appeal over comparative properties; conversely, poorly maintained landscape can actually decrease value. Lesson learned: plan to either do your maintenance, or have it done, yearly!
The main landscape yard, 2013, in its 10th year. Privacy established within a teardrop lawn shape, with borders of shrubs, trees and perennials surrounding.
Consider hardscape additions such as a trellis - here, from courtyard to main yard, with bluestone pavers, annual mandevilla climbers, angelonia annuals. Other additions to consider: statuary, water features, benches, pergolas.
Lessons learned: Save your dirt that's excavated! It'll save you money from trucking out and back in, and could be richer than any dirt you may have to buy once yours is gone. Also, test your soil before planting! Your local extension office holds a wealth of information to help you, including soil testing.
Plan ahead for utilities to enable landscape lighting and entertainment, as well as water supplies throughout your garden. Here, we ran utilities under the road, across to a riverfront property for possible future development.
Don't be afraid to plant tabletop decor plantings after the blooms are spent indoors. Here, these asiatic lilies were purchased from Wal Mart for Easter table displays, and later planted in the garden as self-propagating perennials. Mass your plantings for visual attention!
Gardening is for sharing! Here, these heirloom irises were divided by a friend and transplanted for enjoyment and more visual appeal. Share some 'dirt' with some friends! See more of the befores and afters in blog link:
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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2 of 9 comments
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I have yard envy!!! Yours is just beautiful.
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This is beautiful! I have only landscaped my home, but will be attempting one of our rentals soon. Thanks for all the good ideas! Brenda
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