beautiful landscape

Gardens do not take up much space, yet they can add life and excitement to any yard. A garden need not be museum-ready or qualify to accompany the Queen of England’s royal tea party to be enjoyed. A garden is an extension of a homeowner’s personality and a great backdrop fit for any yard.

Gardens keep us close to nature and lift our spirits. Whether a small, potted plant or a mélange of seasonal tulips, gardens bring a sense of calm and loveliness to any outdoor space.

Many homeowners and renters throw away the idea of a garden because of space and maintenance issues. If you love exotic plants and high-priced luxuries, go for it! But if you are living on a tight budget, you can still enjoy the ambiance of a pleasing garden. Fortunately, you can find many low-maintenance plants that are inexpensive and require minimal care. And small spaces are the perfect backdrop for inexpensive window boxes, potted plants, or self-contained raised garden beds.

Whether your yard is large or a small plot fit for a family brunch, the basics of creating a garden remain the same. Consider these tips before you start so you can ensure the final product matches your thoughts, hopes, and dreams.

Cohesion

Every element of your garden should complement each other. Consider the type of flower before adding new elements. Be careful not to mix two separate design styles, like a Japanese water feature with a Victorian-inspired rose trellis. If you want to add several styles into one space, separate the areas to create boundaries so that each space receives its own measure of appreciation.

Color Choice

This is your chance to really make your personality shine! Use color to add an explosion of interest to your garden. Loud colors bring the eye forward, while muted colors push the eye back. Use bright colors on features you want to stand out and darker colors on those you want to serve as a creative backdrop. Be careful not to overwhelm a more relaxed garden with too much color. Consider your overall theme first.

Scale and Proportion

If you have a small ledge, you wouldn’t add a bright spotlight to illuminate your small, potted plant. In the same manner, pay attention to the scale of your garden and avoid overpowering it with elements that are too large for the space. Consider the mature height of trees as well, and unite the scale of each element so the overall appearance looks unified.

Walkways and Pathways

If you have a larger garden, you may need to consider the paths leading to it and around it. Remove any obstructions to paths and make room for walkways so visitors can stroll through the garden without effort.

Any outdoor space can be injected with the life a garden brings. If you need more help coming up with ideas for your space, visit your local nursery and ask a knowledgeable salesperson for advice. Bring with you a sketch of your space as well as the general outdoor style you desire.

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Perfecting Your Front Yard Landscape

Basic Elements to Creating a Beautiful Landscape Garden

Why You May Need to Hire A Landscape Lighting Designer

Landscape Design for Any Outdoor Space

Tips on Where to Begin with Landscape Lighting

Landscape Lighting for Smaller Spaces

How to Choose a Professional Landscape Designer

Eco-friendly Addition to Your Landscape Design

Choosing a Landscape Design that Matches your Personal Style

Dealing With Wildlife in Your Landscape