For plenty of homeowners, a modest house works just fine as long as it comes attached to a vast lawn space. This feature is an important aspect of any residential property, both from aesthetic and functional viewpoints.
No matter the size of the lawn, keeping it well-groomed using landscaping is important. It enhances the property’s curb appeal, is good for the environment, and positively impacts mental well-being through a connection with nature.
Landscaping is a big deal in the US, with the market having a value of $330.58 billion in 2024. The current growth rate is also impressive (6.7%) due to factors like rapid urbanization and extensive infrastructure.
What if you’re not very happy with how your lawn looks right now? It’s time to make some solid changes. In this article, we will discuss ways in which you can switch to the lawn of your dreams.
Identify Your Assets and Liabilities
You need to start by carefully evaluating the aspects of your current lawn that you love, and those you don’t. Look into every nook and cranny, including the spaces behind shrubs and vines.
Sometimes, you may be surprised how these spaces can also become assets. There may be hidden treasures like an attractive flight of brick stairs or a lovely view. Focus on all the details, including the paving patterns, steps, location of doors, etc.
In the same way, you need to identify all possible liabilities. Perhaps there is an unappealing garage next door that you would like to screen out. Even one of the attractive features can look dull due to a lack of landscaping.
Once you’re done with the identification, it’s time to turn all liabilities into assets. The blank side-entry area to the kitchen can be the ideal spot for a grill or kitchen garden. You also need to understand the environment to ensure your sitting areas or garden do not get exposed to harsh sun rays, strong winds, or rain.
Determine a Non-Traditional Layout
Now, a traditionally landscaped lawn space includes some key elements like well-defined pathways, trimmed bushes, planters, and tall trees. Geometry, symmetry, and repeated patterns are distinctive features of traditional lawns.
While these are good, you can work around them and choose something outside your comfort zone. Non-traditional lawn designs are rapidly replacing traditional ones.
These may include (but not be limited to) the following –
Xeriscape – This is a low-maintenance landscape created using drought-resistant plants, mulch, and rocks. It is a water-efficient design that includes succulents, cacti, and other hardy plants that do not ask for much.
- Rain garden – This type of garden area is suitable for areas that receive heavy rainfall. The landscaped lawn is designed to collect and filter stormwater runoff. You can have native plants and mulch for this type of design.
- Meadow – This type of lawn design is best suited for those looking for cottagecore vibes. It includes wildflowers and grasses that characterize the English gardens. It also becomes a natural habitat for butterflies, birds, and bees.
- Rock garden – Rocks and boulders become the main features of a rock garden. It is designed to mimic high-altitude environments where small alpine plants grow.
Work With the Professionals
The third factor you need to consider is working with the professionals. This rule applies whether the changes you’re going for are minor adjustments or a complete overhaul. Experts have the required knowledge about design aesthetics, plant selection, and local climate conditions.
Plus, some aspects can only be handled by them. Let’s take an example. Suppose a family decides to move to the vibrant town of Simpsonville, South Carolina. Despite rapid growth, this place has a small-town feel which draws crowds from all parts of the US.
Its affordable standard of living, which is 7% lower than the national average, is also a great plus. Once the family moves in, the members decide to redesign the existing lawn space full of shrubs, vines, and trees. While mowing usually comes to mind first, it’s equally important to prune and care for the trees.
According to Swamp Rabbit Tree Co, proper pruning is vital to maintain the safety, health, and aesthetics of the landscape. In case any trees are diseased or too weak, they need to be removed to maintain the overall aesthetics of the property.
For this, an experienced tree service in Simpsonville, SC can be contacted for help. Besides tree pruning, removal, and trimming services may be available. Once that is taken care of, additional elements for the desired landscape design can be added.
Carry Out Maintenance Regularly
According to a 2024 report, the main trends dominating the landscape design space included sensory gardens, calming sounds, living fences, and more. You can also decide which elements you wish to include.
There are many more options to choose from depending on the available lawn space and your budget. Those with larger lawns even create entire living areas that include alfresco kitchens and outdoor bars.
Whatever you choose, it’s important to maintain those features all year round. The natural ones like plants and trees also require maintenance. Schedule a fixed maintenance timeline and stick to it.
Let’s look at the frequency of lawn maintenance –
- Weekly mowing, which must be adjusted based on the lawn’s growth rate
- Watering plants typically early in the morning to minimize evaporation
- Applying relevant fertilizers several times a year during the growing season
- Removing weeds as soon as they appear to prevent their spread
- Aerating the lawn once or twice a year
- Getting the pool cleaned at least once a week
- Having other outdoor structures, like pergolas or gazebos, inspected and repaired at least once a year
Besides the tips we have discussed in this article, your lawn’s landscaping design can evolve. Consider changing a few subtle elements every year, say the lighting and decorative elements.
Consider taking a picture of your lawn and mapping out different parts of it. You can circle each area and decide how you wish to use each of them. If some ideas seem odd, let them be and discuss the possibilities with the experts.
They will eventually help you hone your original ideas for a more realistic design. So, happy landscaping; switch to the lawn of your dreams today!