By this time, you should have a clear design plan on paper, and a good idea of how you’re going to use your yard. As you finalize your design plans, pick out samples of the Hardscaping™ – pavers, stones, fencing materials – and the dominate plant colors you’re planning to use. Bring them home and see how they look together. Do they complement your house’s color and style? You may be surprised at the impact small differences in color and texture make. Be sure to look at your choices outside.
Get inspired!
See what other people have done. Drive around your neighborhood to get some big-picture ideas. Without flowers to distract you, you can really see how the hardscape creates a framework for the garden’s foliage. Focus in on the hardscape details. See what a difference a driveway can make! Do you like the elegant look of smooth pavers? Are you drawn to the natural look of a stone retaining wall? Look at how walkways draw your eye to the house. Then, back at home, spend some time online taking a look at pictures. Remember that your garden has two parts – greenery and hardscape. Consider them both. And don’t be selective — yet! Notice everything that appeals to you and bookmark it. At this point, let yourself take it all in.It does take time to do landscape planning, which is why there’s no time like the present to start. The good news is, thinking about your new landscape is a great way to pass long winter days.
Before you know it, spring will be here, and you’ll be enjoying your outdoors in a whole new way. Have fun!