Do you love your backyard? If you don’t, is it because it isn’t landscaped the way you want it to be? You can change that, and you don’t have to have a botany degree or pay someone else a lot of money to do it for you. There are actually some easy ways to design a backyard that you will love and will want to spend time in.
Know Your Zone
One of the first things you will want to do is figure out what zone you are in. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, there are 11 temperature zones in North America. Lower zones are colder and the higher zones are warmer. They end in zone 11, which is tropical and exists in southern Florida, southern California and Hawaii. Most nurseries will only carry plants that can survive in the zone the nursery is located in. Still, it won’t hurt to double-check the plants and flowers you are buying to make sure they will survive in your backyard.
One of the basic principles of landscape design is symmetry. This can help you in many ways. When you are thinking about your backyard designs, don’t worry about getting many different kinds of flowers, plants, rocks or ornaments. Instead, pick your favorite ingredient, whether it is flagstone rocks or red petunias, and stock up on that. Then, design around it. This way you will have a common theme that will run throughout the entire backyard design. Not only will this be pleasant on the eye, it will be easier when it comes to maintenance.
One Chair And Some Flowers Can Make A Garden
If you happen to have an attractive tree in your backyard, such as a maple, oak or birch, consider placing a garden bench or chair under it and planting an uneven patch of flowers nearby. Many people have found this simple addition to their backyard turns into their favorite spot. You can use a piece of patio furniture that you already have, or shop tag sales and second hand stores for weathered wicker or deck chairs.
Birdbaths are also a nice addition when you are considering backyard designs. There are many different pedestal designs available; the hardest part is sometimes choosing only one. You can spread white landscape rocks around it, or if you prefer you can mulch around it and plant flowers. If you are not going to regularly fill the birdbath with water, you can instead place some decorative birds on top. Or, do both.
Mulch Can Be Excellent Addition To A Backyard Design
There are many different kinds of mulch available, and it is a popular item when it comes to landscaping both front and backyards. Some of the most beautiful types of mulch are cedar and hickory, especially when they have been ground into a fine texture. This type of mulch can be purchased by the yard at your local nursery, and can be used to decorate any area of your backyard. It can be turned over as needed, and will last for years.
