We love helping our clients here at Robin Hickman Realty and today, we will share how to landscape your yard yourself! And trust me, you can do it!
As we have all heard, “The best teacher is experiencing” – an adage that proves true regarding landscaping your home. With creativity and elbow grease, you can turn your yard into a stunning outdoor oasis that makes all of your neighbors jealous.
Read on to discover how to landscape your home and the best landscaping tips in 2023!
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9 Simple Steps: How to Landscape Your Yard Yourself!
Here are the nine steps to landscaping your yard this spring!
1. Make a plan
Planning is key when it comes to landscaping! Taking the time to sit down and sketch out your property is like a warm-up for the main workout. Ensure your success by pinning down exactly what’s already in place – trees, fences, walls, etc. – so you’re not running yard marathons trying to figure out what goes where.
This way you’ll know how much material you need, as well as tailor-made landscaping solutions that’ll make your outdoor area look spectacular. With so many variables to consider, it’s important to prioritize before jumping into a project.
In short: don’t skip this essential step! After all, if ya wanna make a plan then ya better plan to make a plan – excelsior!
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2. Design your space
Any backyard is just begging to be spruced up and become an outdoor paradise, but the thought of gardens galore can be a bit overwhelming. Fortunately, for homeowners who want to turn their garden into something special without all the hassle, it’s never been easier to design your space – it’s like assembling a jigsaw puzzle! Start with what type of look would best fit into your outdoor area, and determine the areas that can be landscaped such as flower beds, pathways, a vegetable garden or even a fish pond.
Landscape designers usually recommend starting with a plan to ensure that the overall look is cohesive and deliberate. If you prefer not to hire a landscape designer and perform a DIY landscaping project, your plan can be as simple as a list of ideas for the space or a sketch of what you want. Once your plan is set it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to work.
3. Start digging
Once you have your dreamscape mapped out, it’s time to start the digging. Nothing quite compares to that feeling of picking up a shovel and hitting the dirt, but be wary of what’s beneath the soil- some surprises may pop up when you least expect them!
Of course, if you want your pond or fountain to look sleek someone with experience might do best, but if all you’re after is a flower bed or pathway then go for it. Just make sure that whatever you build abides by all local codes and regulations in order to avoid any costly issues later on down the line!
4. Add soil and mulch
Think of it this way: Give your flowerbeds the nutrients they need and you’ll get a lush, vibrant garden in return! Adding soil and mulch is like giving your plants a multivitamin – they’ll be so strong and healthy that weeds will have no chance to grow, while also conserving water. Plus, it’s an easy way to create a stunning ground cover for everyone to admire!
5. Plant
When landscaping around your home, the trick is to choose the right plants for your area and make sure they are strategically placed. Before you go ahead with your master plan, look carefully into each plant’s requirements. Are they a sun-worshiping bronzed god or do they require some shade?
Also, consider their size and growth rate as this will take up valuable space or provide. It also pays to add a few trees and shrubs – not only because these provide a gorgeous gardening style but they’re also a great way to provide extra privacy.
➡️ Living in Charlotte, North Carolina, means you will have to be strategic with planting specific plants. Some are shade tolerant and others are sun tolerant. Keep in mind the summers can get hot and sunny!
6. Install pathways
Get creative with pathways and unlock new vistas! Pathways are more than just practical – they can be used to create artistic designs throughout your landscape. Use stones, gravel, or pavers for increased curb appeal and as a pathway material for easy maintenance and durable style. With strategically placed paths, you can open up new areas of your yard, give guests an exciting journey through the space, and always end up right where you need to be.
7. Add additional features
Isn’t it time to upgrade your outdoor space with a sophisticated touch? What better way to give your own landscaping a much-needed makeover than by adding some unique decorations?
Benches, raised beds, statues, birdbaths– the opportunities are truly endless! Not only will these features beautify your exterior, but they also can provide you and your guests with an entertaining conversation piece. Transform your outdoor space into something special that captures charm and personality.
Here at Robin Hickman Realty, we always advise our clients to remember their home needs for living spaces. Living space creates appeal for when you go to sell, but also for you to enjoy so you don’t have to leave your house to enjoy your wine or drink of choice!
8. Use lighting strategically
Add a touch of drama to your landscape with strategic lighting! Downstream lighting is perfect for highlighting specific features and creating an intimate atmosphere. And if you’re worried about safety, motion-activated lights can help keep unsavory characters away during the night – allowing you to enjoy your yard without any worries.
➡️You can find outdoor lighting for pretty cheap on Amazon!
9. Consider Hardscaping
Hardscaping elements such as retaining walls, steps, patios or decks are great to consider but remember to do so on a budget. These can quickly add up in price!
Hardscaping can be a great way to bring life to your outdoor area – think of the possibilities! Retaining walls offer an excellent opportunity to create beautiful terraces and other exciting elevation changes.
Patios and decks are ideal for hosting family gatherings and barbecues, while steps provide an easy solution for accessing different garden levels. Get creative and mix these hardscaping elements with your landscape design – you won’t regret it!
➡️ You can find countless ideas online with places like Pinterest!
The Verdict – Have fun with it!
When it comes to yard landscaping ideas, don’t be afraid to think outside the box!
A little bit of color can go a long way! Perhaps try painting your flowerpots or adding bright foliage to give your outdoor space or front yard a unique look and feel. If it doesn’t work, try something else next spring!
After all, landscaping is an art form, and you don’t have to stick with traditional colors and styles – why not add a splash of whimsy with magenta petunias or vibrant red topiaries?
Go wild with patterns; mix textures; create something that speaks to you! There’s no right or wrong way when it comes to personalizing your landscape – just remember: have fun and make sure you enjoy the process of do-it-yourself landscaping!
