When it comes to boosting your home’s curb appeal, a well-thought-out landscape design should be at the top of your list. With a little research, some observation, and a touch of elbow grease, you can significantly enhance both the appearance and value of your home. Here are five key tips to help you get started.
- Do Your Research
Before you dive into any plant shopping, take time to explore different garden styles. Online resources like Pinterest are perfect for collecting inspiration photos. Look for patterns in the designs you’re drawn to. Do you prefer the soft, relaxed look of flowing plants, or are you more into the clean, structured appearance of neatly trimmed hedges? Consider your space—are you working with a small city lot or a sprawling rural landscape? Does your yard get full sun or is it shaded most of the day? By identifying these details, you’ll get a better sense of what will work best in your own yard.
- Check Your Gardening Zone
Not all plants are created equal—some will thrive in your climate, while others will struggle. A great way to discover what grows well in your area is by observing local homes and businesses. Snap photos of plants you like and use apps to identify them. Also, don’t forget to visit your local nursery! Employees there are usually full of great tips and advice. To dig even deeper, check out your area’s Master Gardener community for advice specific to your region. Local horticulture students may also be a helpful resource—especially if there’s a college nearby.
- Know the Mature Size of Plants
Now that you’ve narrowed down your landscape style and plant list, it’s time to do a bit more research—specifically, look up the mature size of the plants you’re considering. It’s important to know how large your plants will get. Many shrubs, for example, will spread 3–5 feet wide or even grow taller than you expect. Avoid planting tall, bushy shrubs in front of windows with great views! Another key factor is the amount of sunlight your plants need. Observe your space—does it get morning, afternoon, or full-day sun? Some plants thrive in full sun, while others will wither in direct light. Matching plants to the right light conditions will save you time and effort in the long run.
- Plan for Success
Even a rough sketch can help you visualize your landscape plan. If you want to be more precise, grab some graph paper and map out the area you want to plant. Draw circles to represent the mature diameter of each plant, making sure they have enough space to grow without crowding each other. A good rule of thumb is to place smaller plants in front of windows and taller plants around corners or between windows. For easy maintenance, flower beds should be at least 5 feet deep—this keeps plants from spilling into the lawn and makes mowing easier. You can use sweeping curves for a more natural look or stick to straight lines for a modern aesthetic. Planting in groups of 3 or 5 adds visual harmony, while a striking single accent plant can serve as a focal point. And don’t forget to save some space near entrances for seasonal color, like cheerful annuals that greet guests with a burst of color.
- Start with a Strong Foundation
Before you start planting, make sure your soil is ready. Adding compost is one of the best ways to improve soil quality. It boosts nutrients and helps with aeration, allowing roots to establish quickly. Fall is the ideal time to plant shrubs, trees, and perennials, as the cooler weather and extra rainfall promote healthy root growth. If you must plant in the spring or summer, be prepared to water deeply and regularly—new plants need about an inch of water each week for the first year. Another important consideration is edging. Invest in durable materials like metal or stone to create neat, defined garden beds that last for years.
Bonus: Reap the Benefits of Gardening
You’ve got this! By joining the millions of Americans who enjoy gardening, you’re not only enhancing your home’s curb appeal—you’re also boosting your health. Gardening is a great way to get moving, soak up some vitamin D, and improve your mood. Research shows that spending time in the garden can lower stress, reduce blood pressure, and even improve mental well-being. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about watching your landscape come to life, one plant at a time.
At Birdsong Design Group, we specialize in crafting unique, custom homes that reflect your personal style and needs. Our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step of the design and building process, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.
Whether you’re envisioning a new home or considering a remodel, we’re ready to bring your ideas to life. Explore our portfolio to see how we’ve transformed spaces for clients just like you.
Have questions or ready to start your project? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward creating your dream home.
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About the Author
Meet Kim, one of our very talented drafters! She has a degree horticulture with an emphasis in residential landscape design from Texas A&M University in 2002. She has been a member of the Birdsong family for 2 years, and we love her kind and helpful heart.
Kim has always had a passion for floorplans and exploring other people’s homes, a love that began when she was in elementary school. She spent hours drawing her own designs and elevation views, which laid the foundation for her career at Birdsong. One of her first projects here was a stunning 3-story beach house, complete with exterior stairs that ascend from the ground level all the way to the third deck. This project presented a fun challenge for Kim, and she loved every minute of it!
Kim loves being part of the Birdsong family because of the prayer-driven, people-focused atmosphere. Her goal is to share her love for creating warm, welcoming, and inviting spaces, and she does an incredible job at it. Fun fact: Kim’s favorite novel is Lord of the Rings—a true fan of adventure and timeless storytelling!