Pictures Of Landscape Design

Landscape by Design

Q:  I am thinking of redoing my garden.  I am tired of looking at the same ol’ lawn and shrubs that were planted here when I moved in. I am a good gardener and have added small planting beds but they don’t tie together.   I have no idea where to begin.  What do I do?  

A:   It sounds like you need a plan.  I spend a huge chunk of my life planning gardens.  There is no real first step in planning, which is a large part of the challenge.  There are considerations to take into account; each aspect of these considerations will impact the next. 

What inspires you? 

Since you are going to live with your decisions, it is important that you have a garden that makes you feel good about your home.  Some folks feel inspired in gardens filled with vines and flowers.  Other folks are comforted by simple lines and easy maintenance.  Still others want an edgy, modern feel.  Look at pictures, and gardens, track what pleases you deep down inside.  Once you have identified a hundred or so “looks” that you like, you can take a step back and see what they have in common.

How much of the garden do you really want to change?

If you are thinking of redoing a whole property, you really need to have a concise plan.  Measure the property and start measuring spaces for the big change.  If you want to redo some small areas, still measure and make notes, keeping transition material in mind (like arbors, shrubs and trees).  Activities, amenities and plant material all take space.  Your goal is to use a cohesive plan to create a living space that works for you.

What can you do?

Whether we are looking at monetary cost or energy expenditure, you need to pace yourself.  You need to be completely comfortable with what it will take to create and maintain your garden.   It is nice to have a goal that stretches you but at the end of the day, you deserve to feel comfortable in your new space.  This may mean that you implement your plan over time (not over night) but if you plan ahead it will transition smoothly from one phase to another.

What outdoor activities do you enjoy at home? 

Some people want veggies and natives only.  Others are only looking for a safe play area for the kids.  Most people have multiple desires.  Do you entertain?  Do you want to spend evenings in the back yard?  Be sure you allow enough space for the people who will be in the yard, and then plan the plants around them.

Pictures of the Bradford Pear ~ Fast Growing Decorative Trees for ...

Many Bradford Pear Trees which were first introduced commercially by the United States Department of Agriculture in 1963 are now grown in landscapes far and wide due to their attributes of being fast growing as well as decorative specimens. The pictures taken by me show what they look like in the Spring of the year in Houston, Texas.

The white blossom laden branches which envelop these Bradford Pears prior to any leaves being unfurled remind me of snow covered trees that are commonly seen in northern climates.

While we typically do not experience snow in Houston... note that I said "typically" as it snowed twice last winter!...