by Anonymouse

Created on: October 10, 2008   Last Updated: December 02, 2008

Creative landscape design draws attention to homes, making them look not only attractive, but well cared for. To create a unique landscape design, certain elements must be combined according to the homeowner's taste. These may include hardscape items like ponds, waterfalls, and fountains, or simpler items like stones and plants. Having a basic understanding of landscape design makes getting started much easier.

Use Software

An original vision can look different - sometimes unsightly - once it's finally finished. That's where landscape design software comes in. This lets users upload photos or build virtual replicas of their house and yard, then create a preview of the changes soon to take place outside. These programs save homeowners and professionals alike from disaster.

Be Picky about Plants

Choose items that have already proven useful and gorgeous. Certain staples have become popular over the years. Of course, trees and shrubs are two of them. Planting coniferous trees and shrubs will guarantee year-round beauty. The inclusion of deciduous trees will spice things up by adding color and diversity. To help sunlight reach every plant, the tallest should be planted northernmost, and the shortest should be planted southernmost.

Shop at Nurseries

Quality trees and plants can be purchased at nurseries, and though they cost less elsewhere, the savings are not worth the trouble. Annuals and perennials can also be found at nurseries, and if a flowerbed is part of the landscape plan, having both is crucial for continuity and extra color. Having an equal amount of rows throughout the entire landscape will create unity.

Invest in Hardscape

Hardscape items create beauty in winter, when so many other additions have already withered away. An elegant landscape lighting design will help add security and property value to a home. A low-voltage landscape lighting design (12 volts) seems to be the most obvious choice. Other options include waterfalls and fountains, which can be especially costly, but their soothing sounds and aesthetic appeal are worth the going rate. For a finishing touch, a fence gives most landscapes a completed look.

Choose the Worker Bee

Do-it-yourself landscape design works for those willing to spend ample time learning and laboring. It's also much more cost-efficient than employing an expert. Anyone interested can join a landscape design program at certain schools or online, but those who don't have the necessary patience or stamina for this kind of project should forgo the training and hire a professional.

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