Home Summer Improvement: Backyard Landscaping - Enhancing Your Outdoor Space

1. Plan and Design:

   • Assess your backyard: Take a look at the existing features, such as trees, fences, or structures, and consider how you can work with or around them.
   • Determine your needs: Decide on the purpose of your backyard space. Do you want an area for entertaining, gardening, or relaxation?
   • Create a rough sketch: Draw a basic layout of your backyard, marking the desired features like seating areas, pathways, garden beds, or any other elements you want to include.

2. Set a Budget:

   • Determine how much you can afford to spend on your landscaping project. This will help you prioritize your expenses and make informed decisions about materials and plants.

3. Research and Gather Ideas:

   • Look for inspiration: Browse through landscaping magazines, websites, or visit local parks and gardens to gather ideas for your backyard.
   • Consider the climate: Research plants and materials suitable for your climate zone to ensure their long-term viability in your backyard.

4. Create Functional Areas:

   • Designate spaces: Determine areas for different purposes, such as dining, lounging, or gardening.
   • Consider pathways: Plan for pathways that connect different areas of your backyard. You can use materials like gravel, stepping stones, or pavers to create them.

5. Choose Plants and Materials:

   • Select plants: Choose plants that suit your preferences, sunlight requirements, and maintenance level. Consider a mix of trees, shrubs, flowers, and grass to add visual interest.
   • Pick materials: Decide on materials for hardscaping elements like patios, decks, or retaining walls. Options include wood, stone, concrete, or composite materials.

6. Prepare the Site:

   • Clear the area: Remove any weeds, debris, or unwanted vegetation from the site.
   • Level the ground: Ensure that the ground is even and make any necessary adjustments to create a flat surface for your features.

7. Install Hardscaping Elements:

   • Start with the larger features: Install any patios, decks, fences, or other significant structures first.
   • Follow with smaller elements: Place stepping stones, edging, or borders around your garden beds and pathways.

8. Plant and Maintain:

   • Plant your selections: Dig holes and plant your chosen trees, shrubs, and flowers according to their specific needs.
   • Water and maintain: Water your plants regularly, especially during the initial establishment period. Follow the recommended care guidelines for each plant type.

9. Add Finishing Touches:

   • Decorate and furnish: Enhance your outdoor space with furniture, lighting, and decorative elements like garden art, bird feeders, or wind chimes.
   • Mulch and finish: Apply mulch to your garden beds to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Tidy up any loose ends and ensure everything is in its place.

Remember to work at your own pace and seek assistance when needed, especially for tasks that require specialized knowledge or tools. Enjoy the process and take pride in creating a backyard landscape that suits your style and needs.

Planning to buy your own HOME this summer?

If you're in search of a home with a beautiful landscape? Visit www.vancityhometeam.com/listing. You can browse  and register to receive notifications of new listings that match your search criteria, saving you time and keeping you updated.