Free Landscape Ideas

Landscaping and Free Ideas
Free ideas are just that; free.  They help you, but aren’t a good substitute for a good designer.  Here are some of our favorite ideas.

Raised Flower Beds
Raised flower beds look a lot better than flat ones.  They should be around six inches high or higher.  They offset the plants from the grass and give the yard a much better look. 

Compost
Landfill compost is not only cheaper, but better than any nursery compost.  Use it as a topdressing every two years for flower beds.  Its rich black color is better than bark or wood chips.

Perennials
Fill up the flower beds.  Many people run into trouble here.  They may skimp on plants to save money.  The result is that their flower beds are full of weeds.  Keep in mind that the entire flower bed will be full of plants.  You need to decide if you are ok with weeding or not.  If you really dislike weeding, plant a hardy groundcover like Plumbago.

Trees
Evergreens are much more expensive because they grow really slow.  Two very popular good looking trees are the Flowering Plum and the Flowering Pear.  Choose trees that grow well in the area. It will save you a lot of grief.

Shrubs
Bushes also flower.  Consider their flowering potential and their fall colors.  Don’t just pick something plain and green. 

Life Cycle
Something should always be blooming year round.  Design your yard so that you get good flowering in May, July, and September. 

Flowers
Plant bulbs in the fall.  Tulips and Daffodils are a great way to start spring.  Don’t forget to plant white flowers to go with pink, red, and violet. 

Fertilization
Spring, summer, and fall holidays should help you remember to fertilize the lawn and plants.  Three fertilizations is the minimum amount recommended; five is better.

Watering
Use plants that grow well in the area.  If you live in a desert, be mindful of plants that take a lot of water.  You will also enjoy less maintenance if you plant native species that like the area.