With homeownership comes great responsibility. That means getting up-to-speed on landscaping basics. Your Marvida home comes with some landscaping elements but that doesn’t mean you can’t kick it up a notch. Here are some tips for adding curb appeal and creating a beautiful, functional outdoor space for your family.
What is Landscaping Anyway?
Landscaping involves more than mowing your lawn. It’s the process of making your yard more attractive by planting things, as well as installing features like paths, walls, fences and patios. Landscaping is part science and part art. A properly landscaped home adds value to your home and your community.
Start With the Rules
If you live in a master-planned community like Marvida, you probably have an HOA. That means there are going to be a few guidelines as to what you can and can’t plant, how high your fence and structures can be and even how many trees you can have. Before you start your landscaping project, check in with your HOA office.
Set Up a Budget
Before you plan, decide how much you can afford to spend. Experts suggest spending 10 percent of your new home’s price on landscaping. Remember, you don’t have to do it all at once. If your budget only allows for border plants now, that’s okay. Plant them and add the fire pit when you can afford it. Having a budget keeps you from purchasing high-priced items you don’t really need.
How Much Time Do You Have?
Flower beds need weeding, lawns need mowing and trees must be trimmed. Decide in advance how much time you want to spend on landscape maintenance. That will keep you from picking high-maintenance plants. If you don’t like watering, have an irrigation system installed. If you hate mowing and weeding, consider engaging a landscaping service.
Make a Plan
Envision how you will use your outdoor space. Do you have pets and children? Open spaces where they can play should be included. If you enjoy gardening, figure out where the best spot to plant your garden will be. Landscaping software can be a big help. Many programs allow you to import pictures of your yard and then add design elements so you can see what it might look like before you hit the home improvement store.
Do Your Homework
Not every tree, shrub or flower grows well in every climate. Know the difference between perennials and annuals. Map your yard into zones based on when and where they get the most shade and sunlight. Take your map to an expert and ask for help choosing plants.
Design Around a Focal Point
Focal points draw the eye to specific points in your yard. Points that you might be proud of or that offer a view of something truly beautiful. Focal points could be an unusual tree, a pergola or a fire pit. Once you’ve installed yours, concentrate on smaller elements that complement your centerpiece.
Don’t Forget the Hardscape
Hardscape refers to the non-living parts of your yard. The fence, patio, walkways and driveway. These are usually already in place. Think about how you can use plants to improve their appearance or make the space more functional. A footpath could become more welcoming with brightly colored flowers. Add a bench underneath a shady tree for a private book nook. If you enjoy sunsets, build a deck.
Visit Marvida for Landscape Inspiration
If you need a little inspiration for your landscaping project, visit Marvida. Our model homes, amenity areas and neighborhoods are all beautifully landscaped. Stop in to talk to our builders’ representatives. They can tell you all about the landscape design packages they offer.
