5 Things To Keep In Mind When Planning Your Landscape

Jul 26th 2021

For many homeowners, the yard functions as an extension of the home, connecting them to nature and providing access to various outdoor activities. However, a good landscape requires a good plan to ensure no issues arise a month or even a year from now. To help get you started, the professionals at Evergreen Lawn Care are providing these landscape planning tips.

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How It Will Be Used

The number one reason many homeowners opt to change their landscaping is that they want better utility from their yard. Landscaping provides more than just curbside appeal and can set the tone for summer parties, family BBQs, and days spent relaxing poolside. Before you begin dreaming up plans, carefully consider how you intend to use the space. How you use the area will impact the amount of shade, types of plants, need for pathways and lighting, and more.

Maintenance Requirements

Your vision may be that of a lush, tropical landscape teeming with flowers and exotic perennials. Still, if you don't want to manage the upkeep yourself, you'll need to invest in some affordable landscaping services. Working with a professional landscaping company can help you achieve extra perks that may have been too specialized before, such as an enchanting butterfly garden. Additionally, while most people believe lawns require the least maintenance, thoughtfully selected plants can be better options for low-maintenance yards.

Sunlight & Shade

In addition to maintenance requirements, you'll have to take stock of your existing landscape. Depending on the type of plants you decide on, they may need more or less shade. For example, if there are too many trees on the property, you may require tree removal to add some sunshine to your yard. However, if you don't have enough shade, investing in suitable trees can be a start. Just be sure to select trees that won't grow too large for their area and won't cause issues for underground plumbing, electricity lines, or pathways.

Native Plants

When it comes down to selecting plants, native is always best. In Florida's wet, tropical climate, many plants do well. Still, it's important not to choose invasive species, such as Brazilian pepper trees, melaleuca trees, old world climbing fern, or Japanese honeysuckle. If left unchecked, plants like these can grow out of control and stifle the plants not just in your yard but in the surrounding areas too. Native Florida plants will thrive without any cause for concern or extra care.

Soil Quality

Soil quality is one of the most important factors of a thriving landscape. Without the right nutrients and density, most plant installations will fail. If you work with a reputable landscaping company, the landscapers will be able to check your soil and provide solutions to improve its quality. If you're planning on mulching to help the soil, make sure that you use at least 3ndash;4 inches in flower beds to help protect both the plants and the soil.