Landscaping creates value for your home and increases curb appeal. It also gives homebuyers another reason to fall in love with a particular property. Get an edge on the competition by taking your front yard to the next level.
Start by determining a general style, whether structured or informal, to guide your landscaping decisions. This initial choice will facilitate planning and ensure a cohesive look that harmonizes with your home’s existing architecture.
Lawn
A well-maintained front yard starts with taking exceptional care of the lawn. Stand back and assess the appearance. If the grass looks lackluster, determine what steps would help your lawn become the envy of the neighborhood. Sometimes, a neat trim is all the lawn needs. Another option is to visit a garden center, such as Downtown Home & Garden, and choose lawn care products to fortify the grass. Fertilizers and grass seeds can rejuvenate patches or enhance overall lushness.
Consider hiring a local lawn care service to achieve optimal results. If the lawn is beyond repair, replacing the sod might be the most effective solution. Underground sprinkler installation could also streamline maintenance efforts.
Plants and Shrubs
Plants instantly transform outdoor spaces. Be realistic with yourself about how much time you will dedicate to plant up-keep. Tailor your plant selection to suit your lifestyle—opt for low-maintenance varieties like shrubs or vibrant blooms like peonies if you have time for regular upkeep. Choose plants based on their suitability to your yard’s sunlight exposure, seeking advice from experts at gardening centers to determine which plants will thrive in your yard.
Visit a nursery like Fraleigh’s Landscape Nursery when planning to incorporate flowers into the design scheme, and ask an expert to help you select varieties that will grow in a particular location. Fraleigh’s specializes in landscape design and offers consultation if you prefer to hand the landscaping over to a professional.
Trees
Trees come in many varieties and offer an effective way to soften the front yard. With an array to choose from–mature, ornamental, fruit-bearing, evergreen–there’s certainly an option that will fit nicely into the surroundings. Select a style of tree that complements the property and will be in proportion to the house. Take activities–like raking in the fall, blossoms in the spring, and shade in the summer–into consideration when choosing a type of tree. Speak with an expert at English Gardens to determine which trees have invasive root systems that may lift sidewalks or crack driveways; specialty services offered at the garden center include tree planting and yard design services.
Walkways
Walkways serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, welcoming guests and enhancing your home’s entrance. Choose materials like pavers, flagstone, or brick to complement your home’s style and durability requirements.
Edging and Borders
Framing an area of the yard with accents such as plants, flowers or lights adds a polished look to the overall design. Stack slabs purposefully to form ledges; this will create a structured appearance. Large rocks can be used to embrace unique features, such as a slope. Consider lining a walkway or the front of the house with rows of botanicals found at The Farmers Market.
Raised Beds
Stacked raised beds are a stylish option for compact front yards. This design element will draw attention to an area that could otherwise be overlooked. Add ivy or vinca once the project is complete; it makes a pretty ground covering with minimal upkeep. Envision the finished product then decide what material would work best for the yard; wood planks, stone, and bricks are popular choices, and each conveys a different feel. Refer to the homeowner association’s regulations before starting the work.
Decorative Features
Incorporate striking design elements such as fences, gates, or climbing plants to enhance visual appeal. Lighting is also an important feature that can transform the look of the front yard. Add ambiance with uplighting or install path lights to create a warm glow.
Whether you undertake landscaping projects yourself or enlist professional help, even minor adjustments can significantly enhance your property’s appearance. Investing in your front yard’s aesthetics is a worthwhile endeavor that yields noticeable results.
