A well-planned landscape renovation can beautify any property. This guide takes you through the step-by-step procedure on how you can successfully plan and execute your landscape renovation. From sketching your design to maintaining your new landscaped yard, we’ve got everything covered. So, let’s get started!
How to Plan and Execute a Landscape Renovation?
Planning and executing a landscape renovation requires careful thought and detailed preparation to 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. Consider factors such as climate, soil conditions, and the intended use of the space when selecting plants, materials, and features. Develop a comprehensive plan that includes a budget, timeline, and step-by-step actions. During the execution phase, it’s crucial to follow the plan closely while remaining flexible to make adjustments as needed. Proper coordination between all involved parties, such as contractors or designers, ensures 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? Are you going to 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 out a design plan while keeping in mind your goals and vision. If you feel a bit shaky about your design abilities, don’t worry; 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. Design using trees, shrubs, flowers, and ground cover. Consider the path of the sun 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.
Prioritize – Do the most important things first and adjust if need be.
DIY vs. Professional Help – You have the budget, and if you don’t have the necessary skills and extra time to do the job, have it done by a professional.
Cost-Effective Supplies – 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 debris. Add any soil amendments to tailor its nutrient quality and drainage.
Clearing – Any undesirable weeds, dead plants, and structures are removed.
Soil Testing – Test soil from the garden and, where necessary, add compost and fertilizer to enhance pH and nutrient values.
Leveling – Level the space lay down flower beds, and install hardscape features.
Step #6: How to Plant Your Garden
Well now that the hardscaping is in, you can start placing the plants. Plant the biggest plants first, like trees and shrubs, then the smaller ones like the groundcovers. Follow the correct spacings and planting depths recommended.
Watering – Water plants well before and after planting.
Mulching – Spread it around the base of plants to help with retaining moisture and reducing weed growth.
Spacing – Give plants adequate space to avoid overcrowding.
Step #7: Lighting and Water Features
The lighting should be functional and beautify your backyard. Ambient, accent, task, and decorative lighting systems showcase the outdoor living space at night. Also, install security lights to keep criminals from lurking in the darkness. Finally, hook up the water features and make sure that the pump and filtration systems are working.
Step #8: Taking Care of Your New Landscape
A new landscape needs proper care to stay beautiful. These maintenance activities include such as watering, weeding, pruning, and fertilization. Develop a do-it-yourself maintenance plan or have it done by a professional landscaping company, 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.