Landscaping for Beginners

Many homeowners can get so caught up in decorating and designing the interior of their home that they may forget their home has an exterior as well. Landscaping is still a key part to making your home your own: It’s one of the first impressions that guests have of your home and can help increase your curb appeal. Not to mention, it can help you enjoy your home significantly.

Read on to learn more about landscaping, its benefits and how you can start.

What is landscaping?

Landscaping refers to the designing of the land around your home (or other buildings) which may include different features like gardens and architecture. While both can create beautiful visuals, landscaping is different than gardening, which only refers to the maintenance of plants. Landscaping involves designing the big picture, not just one element.

Why should you landscape? 

There are many reasons why homeowners should consider adding landscaping to their list of home maintenance responsibilities.

Property Value

Landscaping can have a huge impact on your home’s property value and curb appeal. A study conducted by trees.com found that poor landscaping can decrease a property’s value between 10 to 30 percent. And even planting one well-kept tree can help increase property value by 30 percent or more.  

If you ever plan to sell in the future, it could be beneficial to take on even minimal landscaping projects. Your home’s curb appeal can make a significant impact on a buyer’s first impression and just one tree could make a difference between a sale and having your home on the market for months or selling for a lower price.  

Environmental Impact

When you choose local and native plants to include in your landscaping efforts, you may have the opportunity to reduce pesticide and fertilizer usage and any other harsh chemicals that could affect your land. Native plants may also be able to help your local ecosystem, impact air quality and reduce soil erosion. So not only can you create an eco-friendly yard for local wildlife to thrive, but you may also be able to affect the environment as a whole.  

Energy Costs 

Strategically placed plants and trees may be able to impact how much you could save on energy. Some plants can create shade in your home, reducing the need for air conditioning and others can act as windbreakers or noise absorption. This can help lower heating costs and create a quieter, more peaceful indoor environment. Even simply choosing plants that don’t require as much water may help you save on your water bill and conserve natural resources. 

Quality of Life 

Green therapy refers to spending time outdoors for your physical and mental well-being. By creating an environment that’s part of your home that you can relax in, you can potentially reduce your stress and anxiety levels. Landscaping can also help you create visual appeal and reduce pollutants, offering you the space to breathe in fresh air. Natural barriers in landscaping can also help you create a private space away from neighbors and foot traffic.

How to Start Landscaping

Understand Why

Whether it’s to impact your property value or to create your own personal safe haven, it’s important to know why you want to start landscaping. This can help you stay motivated throughout the process even when you want to give up. 

Create a Plan 

Landscaping projects and strategies can feel endless, and you might not know where or how to start. Before you pick up a shovel, you may want to consider creating a plan. This way, you’re less likely to get sidetracked and you have a definitive beginning and end. During this process, you may want to decide on your budget, how long you want to work on projects and if you want to DIY or hire professionals. 

Start Small

Don’t get overwhelmed by a big project like creating a personal waterfall in your backyard. Begin your landscaping journey with smaller projects that you can easily do yourself. Find some ideas in the next section.

Simple Projects for Beginners

Design a Walkway

Creating a simple path to your front door can be a great first project to undertake. Not only can it be a focal point for your front or back yard, but a walkway can also be a welcoming addition for your guests. One of the best factors about a do-it-yourself (DIY) walkway is that you can make one out of relatively inexpensive items, including gravel or mulch. 

Plant Your Privacy 

Instead of building a seven-foot fence to keep curious eyes out, you may want to consider using plants as a fence or adding them in front of fencing that’s just not tall enough. This will help create privacy while also adding attractive greenery to the surroundings of your home. You could even choose plants or artificial hedges that require less maintenance. 

Install Lighting

Don’t forget about outdoor lighting. Strategically placed hanging or recessed lights can create an elegant, welcoming atmosphere. Even simple ground lights can help add character and personality to your outdoor areas.

Take it One Step at a Time 

Professional landscaping is no easy feat, but as a homeowner, there are many simple projects you may be able to dive into to help improve your home’s exterior. Don’t get discouraged by intricate landscaping designs. Even planting a simple tree can reap many benefits.