The front of your home is the first impression you give to guests and neighbors. Elevating your curb appeal goes along way in maintaining home value and putting a smile on your face every time you pull into your driveway! Front yard projects are one of the more common requests we get for small-designs and consulting.
There are usually two sides to this type of project, either the landscape is overgrown and blocking windows or pathways, or is bare and any plant that are present plants are struggling to survive. Today we will share some basic guidelines in doing this project yourself (although we would LOVE to assist you)!
The main problem with an overgrown front yard is the plants selected are usually too large for the space provided, planted too close to structures, and are overplanted. If the yard is looking lifeless instead of lush, the plants selected are not suitable for the light exposure, soil type, or are not receiving adequate water. Luckily, this kind of design work is very simple and can be corrected within a small budget.
As designers – we help clients figure out the aesthetic they are looking for, and build off of the homes current architecture, or suggest exterior upgrades so the home reflects the client’s style. We tend to lean toward more evergreen plants and low-maintenance designs for front yards because keeping up this area is often the last on the to-do list when life gets busy!
So here is our Front Yard Refresh checklist!
- Determine what variety of plants are existing and whether or not they stay or go.
- Take a look at the shape of your planting area. This is the time to change the size and/or shape of the grass edge.
- Make your planting plan. Chose a selection of 5-7 plants you like. Make sure they will do well in the light exposure, soil type, water needs, and growing zone of your property. Be mindful of the mature growth size of each plant you selected. Choosing plants that stay below 36″ in height and are described as a “compact growth habit” are usually safe bets!
- Purchase your plants and move them around to create your layout.
- Want to step it up a notch? Pick up one or two granite boulders from your local landscape supply company. Lighting also goes a long way for safety and adding a hint of sophistication to your landscape.
- Plant! Make sure to fertilize and water your plants during this step and to keep up on the watering until the roots are established. If you already have an irrigation system, make sure the water is covering your new planting bed adequately. No irrigation and don’t want to have to worry about remembering to water this area? Ask a local landscape contractor about installing a drip system. They are water-wise and easy to install.
- Enjoy!
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