Landscape Design Tips For Homeowners

A well-designed landscape adds value to your property aesthetically, economically, functionally and environmentally. JFD Landscapes provides beauty and a relaxing outdoor setting but can also help control erosion, reduce wind speed and noise, buffer summer and winter temperatures, filter water, provide a habitat for wildlife, and more.

Unity – tying the various elements of your landscaping together in an orderly design. For example, lining up similar plants or using the Rule of Three helps create unity within a landscape design. Repetition is a common design technique, but overuse can make your landscaping dull. The key is to use repetition sparingly.

Balance – balancing the visual weight of different areas of your landscape design. For instance, a tall tree with a full canopy can visually balance a low shrub on the other side of the yard. The concept of balance can be symmetrical or asymmetrical, and the use of different scales of plants can also play a role.

Form – the shape of plant stems, leaves, bark and branches. This can be formal, organic or a combination of both. For example, the stiffly upright branches of a Lombardy poplar tree are very different from the drooping appearance of a weeping willow tree.

Texture – how rough or smooth the plant’s foliage, flowers and branching pattern feel to the touch. Plants are usually categorized as having a coarse, medium or fine texture. Texture contrast is important in a garden.

Movement – the use of movement in your landscape design to create a relaxing environment. For example, Asian-style gardens often feature raked patterns in the sand meant to evoke the movement of water or placing rocks in a circular arrangement to suggest islands in the sea.

Color – the use of warm and cool colors in your landscape to contrast and create interest. Color is one of the most important landscape design elements. Using the color wheel is an effective tool to help you achieve harmony in your landscape.

Planting Rate and Mature Size – the amount of time it will take for your plants to reach their desired height and spread. Taking this into account is essential to making sure that your plants fit properly in your landscape.

Durability – choosing durable materials to make your landscape last for years. A long-lasting patio or deck made with composite or weatherproof materials will stand up to years of heavy use, while looking beautiful through all the seasons. A walkway of pavers or a trellis made of wrought iron or other durable material will also stand up to the elements while adding character to your landscape. Landscape lighting – accenting the beauty of your landscaping with soft light at night can transform the atmosphere of your landscape for family gatherings, romantic evenings or quiet relaxation.

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