Planning the Garden - Know Your Garden Site

Envision the property - as it is.  Make notes of the sunny portions of the yard. Where is the shade most of the day? Is the site level or hilly? Check the drainage path directions - does the yard puddle in one area for hours after a hard rain?   Where is the soil very dry? Planning the garden will help the process for a rewarding garden experience.

Check out elements that cannot be removed, such as a neighbors garage, large trees, utility boxes,and power lines. Planning the inclusion of these elements may be easier if screens, shrubs, and vertical structures are incorporated into the garden.

Are there community restrictions regarding fences and other structures? Does a fence need to be open, wood, metal, or if the fence can come to the front of the dwelling on the property.  These elements will have to be part of the new landscape, so planning the garden around them will be less stressful when the actual construction of the yard has begun.

Fence line 

This view of the fence line to the back of our property which extends over 200 feet.  At this photo time, the bed was fifteen feet deep from the fence to the edge.  I determined that this size was more than I could care for easily, so we moved the edge to approximately five feet deep -   more in line with my style and energy.

The fence will be a back drop of any landscape plan. The fence is on the west side of the house, and usually has shade fall in front of it by early afternoon.  The morning sun warms this area until that time.

Side yard - South exposure

This is a hot sunny area of our backyard. South exposures (In the Northern Hemisphere) will get sun morning, noon, and afternoon. Full sun plants will thrive here as well as drought tolerant plants. Consider these elements when planning the garden of your dreams.

Utility cables 

Be aware of the utilities and make access to them. Service techs will not be concerned at all to be careful around your lovely plants. I've set in a few stepping stones between my plants (hint- hint) for the meter readers to use.

Bed  created along walkway

Many hardscapes can be utilized into the landscape. Patios, drives, and pathways are considered to be 'hardscapes'.   Walkways to the front door should be open and visible for visitors to follow. If shrubs are too high, or they are encroaching the path, the design will not be appreciated.  It will be aggravating and high maintenance keeping the plant materials within their boundaries. 

Ravine divides property

Hills, ravines, creeks, and other natural features will make the plan for a garden challenging.   

Terraced walls steep incline to shed

Terracing and bridges are charming, but may break the budget. 

Steps to deck above

Stairs need to be built to code, and handrails and risers should be sturdy.  No homeowner wants an accident on the premises, or a potential lawsuit.  Local zoning departments will give the specification for your space.  

Cleared space 

So, when planning your space the gardener need to consider 1) the Size, 2) the Exposure - N, S, E, W.  3) The Style that appeals to the sensibilities of the gardener., and  4) The Budget - reality can be harsh, but sticking to a budget will relieve post-construction regrets.

Take the time to plan your space.  Note that we haven't even talked about plants.  That step is next, but often jumps the line.   Keep to this process of planning the garden for a successful, rewarding gardening experience.

Building Blocks of a Landscape

Landscape Ideas to Begin Your Garden Project

One of the first toys we played with as very young children was blocks.  We stacked them, lined them up, knocked them over.  These block were the foundation of our learning, reasoning, and hand/eye coordination. The same foundation is needed in our yards.  Before we get too excited about putting in plant material, we need to set the foundation.

Landscape ideas that include Hardscapes such as patios, walls, walkways, and paths need to be planned and implemented before the plants.  I know!  That is the hard work part; but this step is essential for the future use, convenience, and visual appeal you want in your yard. The process doe not have to be extremely expensive either.

We've used hard wood mulch for paths, with the edges lines with 'found' rocks.    The sitting area can be just a patch of grass that you plan to set a table and chairs on.  The walkways that invite folks through you garden can also be turf shaped between beds that is easy to travel and cool to the eye.

Another easy, inexpensive material  for a path is gravel.  Decomposed granite is a powdery material with a powdery blend to 1/4" in size. This can be tamped into a sturdy surface that will also drain water.  This drainage will allow plant and trees roots to get water that would otherwise be heading for the nearest sewer.

Larger sized gravels can also be an economical option   The gravel we used was tamped down with a tamper. The gravel and tamper were not too pricey and we make the weekly trip to Lowes for these supplies.  I have to say, however, that the larger gravel paths were not comfortable for the dog.  She struggles finding her footing and often resorts to walking in the beds.

Making areas that you want to plant may require you to 'build up' a raised bed.  This will allow you to put in lots of compost, and ensure good drainage.  Whether you are preparing this bed for vegetables, perennials, or shrubbery,  I find building up is easier than having to dig in heavy soil.  In our yard we used stackable blocks just like the good old days!

The stepping stones used here were needed because of the heavy foot traffic in an area that retains water.  Take a good look around your yard for these types of issues too.  Planning ahead will allow you to really enjoy your space.

Of course if you envision a bigger project , it is always wise to consult a professional landscape designer or architect. Depending on your skill level, you  may attempt some of the projects yourself. And a word to the wise, too often the budget can get out of hand quickly! So envision your space, enrich your space, but most of all, enjoy your space.

I've touch on a few items that I'd like to address next time.  The building of 'good soil', and  conserving water.  Hope to see your soon. Thanks for visiting.