A well-planned landscape renovation can beautify any property. This guide takes you through the step-by-step procedure to successfully plan and execute your landscape renovation. We’ve covered everything from sketching your design to landscape maintenance. So, here are the steps to get you started!
How to Plan and Execute a Landscape Renovation?
Planning and executing a landscape renovation requires careful thought and detailed preparation. These steps can help you transform your outdoor space into a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment.
Start by assessing your current landscape, identifying areas that need improvement, and defining your goals for the renovation. When selecting plants, materials, and features, consider factors such as:
- Climate
- Soil conditions
- The intended use of the space
Develop a comprehensive plan with a budget, timeline, and step-by-step actions. During the execution phase, following the plan closely while remaining flexible is crucial. You can make adjustments as needed.
Proper coordination between contractors or designers ensures that the project progresses smoothly and achieves the desired outcome.
Step #1: Assess Your Present Landscape
Effective landscape design and planning involves knowing where you’re coming from. That means taking a good hard look at your yard and, in your mind’s eye, envisioning the finished product. Consider each of the following before you sit down to plan the job.
- Usage – Begin with areas you use the most and areas you want to improve.
- Features to Keep – Identify the plants and hardscaping you want to retain.
Step #2: Define Goals and Vision for Landscaping
Now that you’ve taken inventory of your current landscape, it’s time to set the goals for your project. What will you create with your renovation? Will you design a retreat to relax, cook, or entertain outdoors?
Perhaps you want it all. Decide on the elements you intend to bring into the design. Questions to Ask:
- Functionality – What do you want to achieve with your new landscape design?
- Aesthetics – What kind of style or theme do you think the project should be built around?
- Maintenance – Think of the time and effort you’ll have to expend on the maintenance and upkeep of your new landscaped area.
Step #3: Draw the Design Plan
Roughly sketch a design plan while keeping your goals and vision in mind. If you feel a bit shaky about your design abilities, don’t worry. You can bring in the expert perspective of a professional landscape designer to realize your ideas.
Design considerations:
- Site Selection – Choose hardy native plants for the site and include adding trees, shrubs, flowers, and ground cover. Consider the sun’s path during the day and any areas that don’t get any sunlight.
- Hardscape Features – Construct patios, walkways, retaining walls, and other structures like pergolas; specify material as stone, brick, or wood.
- Exterior Lighting – Provide ambiance and security for your outdoor living space.
- Water Features – Add fountains, ponds, or a bird bath.
Step #4: Develop a Budget and Schedule
Be realistic about your budget and timeline: itemize all the costs, materials, plants, labor, etc. While calculating the budget, provide some wiggle room for non-budgeted expenditures. Time and money play a significant role in the project.
Prioritize the most important things first and adjust if need be. If you have the budget but don’t have the skills and extra time to do the job, call a professional.
Purchase materials in wholesale quantities at garden stores and home improvement centers.
Step #5: Site Preparation
Prepare your site before building and planting. Clear the site of weeds, rubble, and other yard debris. Add any soil amendments to tailor its nutrient quality and drainage.
Test soil from the garden and, where necessary, add compost and fertilizer to enhance pH and nutrient values. Next, level the space, lay down flower beds, and install hardscape features.
Step #6: How to Plant Your Garden
Once the hardscaping is in, you can start placing the plants.
Plant the biggest plants first. This includes trees and shrubs. Then, plant the smaller ones like the groundcovers.
Ensure you follow the recommended spacings and planting depths. Do this to avoid overcrowding in your garden.
Water plants well before and after planting. If you have an irrigation system, schedule watering according to specific needs. Spread mulch around the base of plants to help retain moisture and reduce weed growth.
Step #7: Lighting and Water Features for Added Curb Appeal
The lighting should be functional and beautify your backyard. Ambient, accent, task, and decorative lighting systems showcase the outdoor living space at night. Also, security lights should be installed to keep criminals from lurking in the darkness.
Finally, hook up the water features and ensure the pump and filtration systems work.
Step #8: Taking Care of Your New Landscape
A new landscape needs proper care to stay beautiful. These maintenance activities include:
- Watering
- Weeding
- Pruning
- Fertilizing
Do you enjoy spending time in the garden? If so, develop a do-it-yourself maintenance plan. If not, have a professional landscaping company do the maintenance so your new garden gets the proper care it needs.
Antler Country Landscaping Omaha
Antler Country Landscaping was incorporated in 1997 and over the years has grown to offer professional landscape services, lawn care, and outdoor living spaces. Our mission is to enhance your outdoor experience. Contact us to learn more about our Omaha landscaping services.