Landscaping is a great way to add value to your home and create an outdoor space that you and your family can enjoy. However, there are some common mistakes people make when they’re landscaping which can end up costing them time, money, and energy in the long run. Here are 10 of the most common landscape-related mistakes to avoid:
1. Not Preparing Ahead of Time
Not preparing ahead of time is one of the most common mistakes people make when landscaping. This can be a costly error, as it often leads to inadequate planning and poor decisions that could have been avoided with proper research. To prepare ahead of time, make sure to measure your yard, determine the climate in your area, analyze the soil type and moisture content, research the types of plants and materials that you want to use, and create a design plan for your landscaping project. Without proper preparation, you may find that your project could quickly exceed its budget.
2. Planting Too Close to the House
Planting too close to the house can cause a few issues which include increased humidity and moisture in the air, creating an environment that’s hospitable to fungi, molds, and bacteria. In addition, planting too close to your house can cause problems with drainage, as well as damage to the foundation of your home from roots. To avoid these issues, be sure to plant at least three feet away from your house, and be sure that you’re placing plants with shallow roots closer to the house than those with deep roots.
3. Not Measuring Ahead of Time
Measuring ahead of time is an essential step in ensuring that your landscaping project goes smoothly. Take measurements of the area you plan to landscape, as well as any furniture or structures that you want to incorporate into your design. This will help you plan for the proper amounts of materials and plants, as well as how much space you need to work with so that you don’t end up purchasing too much or too little.
4. Planting Too Much
Planting too much can lead to overcrowding, which in turn can cause a variety of problems. This can range from plants competing for limited resources, such as nutrients and water, to causing diseases that could spread throughout the garden. To avoid this issue, be sure to research how much space each plant needs and stick to the recommended spacing guidelines.
5. Not Choosing the Right Plants
Choosing plants that aren’t suitable for your climate or soil type can be a costly mistake – one that could result in stunted or dead plants, or even an infestation of pests and diseases. To ensure you choose the right plants for your landscape, research the types of plants that are suited for your area and take into account factors such as soil type, climate, and sunlight.
6. Not Researching Maintenance Requirements
Not researching maintenance requirements ahead of time can lead to a lot of frustration later on. While certain plants may look great in the beginning, if they require a lot of maintenance it could become a hassle over time. To avoid this, make sure to research what type of maintenance each plant requires before you purchase them.
7. Not Considering Drainage
Poor drainage can be the death of your landscaping project – literally! If your soil doesn’t have adequate drainage, then it can cause an array of problems, from standing water to an increase in pests and diseases. To prevent this issue, make sure that you’re taking into account the type of soil you have and adjusting your landscaping plan accordingly.
8. Ignoring Color Theory
Color theory is an important aspect of landscaping that many people overlook. When designing your landscape, consider the color schemes of plants and structures around your home and how they will affect the overall look. This can help you create a more cohesive design that’s visually pleasing.
9. Overlooking Seasonal Considerations
Landscaping isn’t a one-time job; it’s an ongoing process that requires seasonal upkeep. As the seasons change, make sure to consider which plants need to be pruned, fertilized, and/or watered to help them thrive throughout the year.
10. Not Adding Structural Elements
Structural elements such as retaining walls, fences, and decks can add depth and interest to your landscape. Not only do they help provide a sense of privacy, but they also give an extra layer of protection against pests and diseases.
Not using landscape edging can be a costly mistake as it helps contain mulch and keep lawns tidy. It can help define your garden’s boundaries and create a neat, polished look. It can also prevent weeds from invading your garden beds, as well as provide support for walkways and patios. However, if not installed properly it can lead to drainage issues or cause damage to the foundation of your home. To avoid these issues, be sure to install edging that is appropriate for your soil type and climate, and make sure to leave enough space between the edging and any adjacent structures. Additionally, be sure to slope the edging away from your foundation to avoid water damage. With proper installation and maintenance, landscape edging can help you create a beautiful garden that will last for years to come.
Quality Accents LLC offers the best quality landscape edging on the market to help you create a beautiful and long-lasting outdoor living space. With our extensive range of styles and colors, you can find the perfect edging solution for your home. Contact us today to learn more about our products, and services. We look forward to helping you create a stunning outdoor oasis.
Overall, the key to successful landscaping is preparation and research. Taking the time to plan ahead and consider all aspects of your landscape can help you create a beautiful and functional space that will be enjoyed for years to come. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect outdoor oasis!
Happy Landscaping!