Idea for Landscaping in the backyard?

Hi Rechard, congratulations on your new condo! Landscaping for me always starts with one big question: "How much maintenance do I want to do every day, week, month and in the future?" Different plant choices can mean constant up keep and watering and annuals will even need to be replaced year after year.

I would look into evergreen plants and shrubs that are native to the area and you know will do well there and may only require yearly pruning etc. Trees are always fun. A fruit tree or two native to your place could make a nice addition once they mature.

Keep the work to a minimum with plants like hosta that need little attention. Mulch so you don't have to weed much and if you have pets be sure to look up what plants and mulch are poisonous to animals. Plant tall plants at the back edge and smaller ones in front.

Hello. For the best local professional advice I would highly suggest contacting your cooperative extension. These offices are manned by volunteer master gardeners on site there waiting to answer the communities questions that know your local situation quite well.

Master gardeners are required to volunteer back designated hours ( plus continuing education) each year to maintain MG certification -this community outreach and education is their goal.

If your office is closed ( ours is open) ....there might be alternative online venues like Ask an Expert as well as emailing your local master gardeners extension office for their

guidance.... in a non contact manner.

Most plants success depend on their hardness to geographic planting zones presenting weather conditions soil and sunlight exposure. Your local experts should have the ideal suggestions for your need with these specific needs in mind.

Try iScape - an app that helps you plan out a landscaping plan!

One tip I would offer is to consider how "messy" the plants are that you put into your landscape. Often that's not considered at all and the homeowner with a pool has more pool maintenance with the blossoms, etc. floating on the pool and worse yet clogging p their filtering equipment.

Condo Landscape Ideas

https://www.pinterest.com/shannon561/condo-landscape-ideas/

I would choose a "theme" and also check to see items that are low maintenance and don't cause messes for the pool. I'm thinking plants in a pot would be a best avenue. Also, remember to check with your HOA. My daughter's has so many strict regulations that she couldn't even have solar lighting. But if you can, I think adding lighting would be a great investment and create a beautiful ambience.

I would talk to a landscape designer for help because you need to know what plants will work in your area and your amount of sun and shade. You need plants that won't shed into the pool, etc. You need to know building codes for the patio, etc since you are in a condo and I assume you have a home owner's association with rules on building, etc. so talk to the HOA first about what your plans are then find someone to help you put your design down for you to look at on paper

Orientation - Drainage - Ground Conditions - Time available - Skills - Materials required - Availability of Materials and Tools/Machinery for the job - Costs.