A good garden works like another room of the house, somewhere to sit, eat and wind down.
Here are seven ideas worth borrowing, from quiet to sociable.
Add structure with hardscaping
Adding hardscaping elements to your landscape design balances soft planting with something solid. Paths, patios and low walls give a garden shape and somewhere to gather.
According to Georgia Landscaping and Hardscaping LLC, natural stone blends into its surroundings while modern pavers give a sharper look, and either can add value to a home and cut down on maintenance.
Plant what belongs there
Native plants are adapted to local soil and weather, so they need far less water and fuss.
They also feed local pollinators and wildlife, and they make a garden look like it belongs where it is. Local extension services are a good source of advice on plants.
Make outdoor rooms
Think of a dining spot under a pergola, an outdoor kitchen or a corner with a couple of good chairs next to the beds. Landscapers like Michaelangelo’s can help plan spaces like these so they get used.
Add water
Moving water changes how a garden sounds, whether it’s a small fountain or a stream.
A koi pond adds life and reflection, and well placed water features scale to almost any space, from a birdbath to a waterfall.
Plan for every season
Choose plants that peak at different times so there’s always something going on.
Spring bulbs, summer perennials, autumn color and evergreens like a christmas fern keep a garden going year round. Winterberry adds red in the cold months, and ornamental grasses look good even when dormant.
Light it well
Warm light on a tree or two, path lights for safety and a little accent light on water make a garden usable long after sunset.
Searching for landscape lighting installation near me is one way to find professionals who design and install lighting for paths, patios and planting.
Garden lightly
Drought-tolerant planting and xeriscaping cut down on watering, and compost and mulch keep soil healthy.
Rain barrels collect free water for the beds, and solar or LED lighting keeps the power bill down.
Start with one idea and let the garden grow from there.
