Introduction
Create a General Landscape Plan
Complete a Thorough Site Analysis
Define Planting Areas
Principles of Design
Elements of Design
Plant Selection
Installation
Landscaping With Native Plans
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Once plans are made, it is time to install the new landscape. In some cases, it
may be possible to contract installation with a local landscape nursery. This
is the simplest and quickest method for completing the plan. It is also the most
expensive. Consequently, completion of a landscape may be a long-term project,
requiring several months or years. When a project is done piecemeal, it means
that each step of the process should result in something attractive and functional.
Careful consideration should be given to the implications of each step in the
process.
The following order of completion will, as a rule, help you avoid frustration
in completing a landscape project around your home. Follow these steps when installing
a new landscape or renovating an older one. The sequence can be adjusted according
to personal need, abilities, and finances.
- Install primary hardscapes These include sidewalks, driveways, walls, terraces,
decks, patios, and ponds. Hardscape features will define your use areas and will
prevent future damage to your landscape if done in the beginning.
- Install Planting Beds - Amend soils, if necessary, and install weed barriers,
if desired.
- Plant or Move Trees and Shrubs - Plant and transplant shrubs early in the
spring or late fall when plants are dormant and the soil is workable. Do not transplant
large trees and shrubs when they are actively growing.
- Install the Irrigation System Make sure it is properly designed with proper
head spacing, coverage, and zoning.
- Plant Lawn or Ground Covers - Add soil amendments if you have poor soils-especially
soils low in organic matter-or plant some type of an annual cover crop to improve
the soil before planting. With a long-term plan, this step may need to be moved
up in the scheme.
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