by Susan Klatz Beal

Created on: January 22, 2010

The landscaping that you place around your home can change the look of your home dramatically. It can add value to your home and create a satisfying and appealing environment for everyone who comes to it, yourself included. Although a professionally landcaped garden can be prohibitively expensive, it isn't necessary to go that route to create a beautiful

Here are some suggestions that could help you save money when installing a new garden landscape.

*Plant seeds of your own -

Admittedly, growing your own plants by starting seeds is a lot more work, but the amount of money you can save by not having to by plants is indescribable. A package of seeds, depending on the size of the package and the type of seed it is can cost you anywhere from about $.79 to about $4.99 - or you can buy seeds in bulk. You will get many hundred times more plants that what you could buy for the same amount of money.

*Opt to use perennials -

If you go with perennials, they will return year after year. If you're going to buy plants, they may be more expensive at the onset, but realize that they will spread, sometimes even in the first season, and ultimately, you will get many more plants per single plant than you'd get with annuals. In subsequent years, you'll be able to divide those perennials and plant the divisions elsewhere.

*Use ground covers -

If you're concerned about bare spots, plant ground covers. The ground covers will spread, covering those bare spots, and in the process, help to keep moisture in the ground. Ground covers will also help to keep the weeds at bay.

*Look for indigenous plants -

If you live in the Midwest, look for plants that are native to the area. They will thrive there, and many types of plants, such as wildflowers, for example, will spread and reseed themselves. You can also harvest seeds from these plants and the seeds will be every bit as good as seeds you could buy - but probably even better. If you live in a place where the climate is dry, don't go with plants that need huge amounts of water. Look for plants for dry climates or Xeriscape gardening.

*Make your own compost -

Many inexperienced gardeners aren't aware of the incredible value that can be found in the compost they produce themselves. Your compost will be the most amazing, rich black gold that can be used to amend the garden beds, either by simply improving the quality of the soil or by adding nutrients, and it can be used as a  mulch which will eventually work its way

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