As the temperature starts to climb and the threat of snow and sleet begins to wane, our thoughts turn naturally to outdoor projects. It’s time to clean up the outside from the effects of winter and consider those projects that can transform the yard into an area of beauty. Landscaping and gardening increase curb appeal and bring joy to homeowners.
Often the idea of establishing new outdoor projects can seem daunting. Why not make it an enjoyable process by following some simple steps? Landscaping professionals can be a tremendous resource both in planning and executing landscape improvements, saving time and effort for the homeowner. Regardless of whether you use a professional or go it alone, here are some helpful hints.
Get Motivated
The decision to work on your yard means you have already determined that improvements are needed. But what should your yard look like? Take a stroll through the neighborhood or drive around town to see what others have done. Go to local gardening centers to see specific plants you like. Check out programs on HGTV and other channels. Go online to websites like www.houzz.com or Pinterest sites for a plethora of ideas.
Know the Climate
Before you go wild with your new project, find out what plantings make the best choices for your yard. In Northern Virginia we are fortunate to live in a fairly moderate climate without severe weather conditions. In terms of hardiness, the Greater Tysons area is part of Zone 7A, (USDA Growing Zones) a rating identifying which plants are most likely to thrive in the area. Also factor in the amount of sun and shade in different areas of the yard throughout the day. The possibility of pests such as insects, wildlife, and stray animals should also be considered.
Complement Your Home’s Exterior
Plants should be chosen that enhance the beauty of your home’s exterior. A modern home should call for a very different landscape than a colonial house might. It is also appropriate to think about when different flowering plants will bloom so that you can enjoy color and beautiful flowers all season long.
Create a Design
Once you have determined the plantings you want, you can draw a simple diagram or just stake out where plants will go. Allow enough room for growth and the ultimate size of bushes and trees. Most plants will show expected height and width on the accompanying labels when purchased at the garden center. Plantings too close to a sidewalk, for example, eventually can lead to obstructions for your walking neighbors.
Plant at the Appropriate Time of Year
If you are doing your own planting, pay attention to the suggested planting season for each plant, tree, or shrub. Those are also marked on the labels or can be researched online.
Maintain Your Plants
Once you or your landscaping professional has designed and planted your beautiful yard, garden, or flower beds, regular care is required to keep everything growing and thriving as planned. We won’t call it work, because many motivated homeowners derive tremendous pleasure from the simple tasks of weeding, watering and pruning, knowing that their efforts are enhancing the look of the entire yard and helping plants to grow. Once again you can choose a do-it-yourself approach or rely on the expertise and time-freeing care of a professional gardener or lawn service to make your yard sparkle.
Now it’s time to pull out the Old Farmer’s Almanac to check for final frost predictions and get your landscaping project in focus.
