by Karon Brandt

Created on: October 10, 2008   Last Updated: May 25, 2010

Our homes are our "castles," our sanctuaries, and our places for entertainment for our families and friends. We want to invest in them - to increase their value, but also to make our refuge something we feel comfortable with and proud of.

Unless you're unusually wealthy, you'll need to prioritize changes and make them happen as you can afford them. What's most important to you?

The front yard is your property's face to the world that represents you to your neighbors. Your back yard is usually for fun and games, privacy and relaxation.

Landscaping requires time and budgeting. While keeping your final design in mind, you will want to break down your multiple projects into manageable, sequential stages.

Prioritize

Even before adding landscaping touches, you'll need to start with hardscaping, which includes the structural elements built from stone, bricks and lumber. If you intend to make any home additions - an enclosed porch, a patio, room extension, etc. - do that first. If you want to add separate structures like a garage, garden shed, gazebo, or in-ground pool, do that before you start planting.

If you cannot afford to build your structure now, make allowances. Don't plant an oak where the future pool is going to be.

Lay out a design

Organize your outdoor space as conscientiously as you do your indoor space. Sketch out a basic design, positioning your house and any other structures with a full outline of your property. (If a paper design seems a bit old-fashioned and you know how to use a software program, go for it.)

Compass directions are important for plantings. The south and west get the most sun; you might want to plant a shade tree there. Maybe you want to block northern winds with tall arborvitae. Consider walkways, hedges, fencing, an above-ground pool, an eating area, a garden area, a pet area, the children's play area.

Lay out a design for pathways to specific areas and decide on major plantings: large and small trees, specific shrubs, and general layouts for flowerbeds.

An ill-planned landscape doesn't add proper depth and dimension to the home; don't overlook the value of adding height, color and texture in plantings. Decide how much maintenance you expect to put into your yard and who is going to do it. It will make a big difference in your decisions.

Most homeowners allow an area for outdoor barbecuing. This can be as simple as setting up a grill and picnic table with benches to an elegant outdoor eating area suitable for twenty guests.

Grass

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