This dreamy property in the coastal mountains south of San Francisco already had a pool, lawn areas, gardens and mature trees, including a large Japanese maple and many oaks. The homeowners wanted to make the landscape design more refined, cohesive and colorful, so they hired landscape architect Lisa Howard of Bay Tree Design. At the top of their wish list was providing lots of places where their four boys, ages 4 through 12, could play.
The new design has patios, seating areas, container gardens and more. “My clients love to entertain large groups, but [they] also wanted cozy spots for smaller groups to gather,” Howard says. She created outdoor rooms so guests could spread out during parties. New garden areas allow the homeowners to grow fresh flowers for parties, and herbs for garnishing homemade pizzas.
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Adding a few plants to your yard is a great way to revitalize the space — and it doesn’t have to cost too much, says Wayne De Klijn, owner of AQL Landscape Design. When you’re choosing new plants, it’s important to pick a theme so the garden doesn’t look visually chaotic and disconnected, he says. De Klijn suggests choosing plants based on their region. “Or you might choose a theme based on color, such as all-white flowering plants,” he says.
It’s important to consider your region’s and backyard’s conditions when choosing plants. “The right plant in the right position will thrive,” Pezzimenti says. Soil preparation is also key. “Cultivate the soil before planting, and make sure it’s fluffy. This will give your new plants a great start,” he says.
The quality of plants you buy will also affect their success. “Be sure to purchase quality plants from a reputable nursery,” Pezzimenti says. “Check [that] the plant stock looks healthy and that roots are not pot-bound.” Prices for plants vary greatly; for an affordable option, purchase plants in seed form, cuttings, bulbs, tubes or small container sizes, he says.
Make Sure You Read This Before Buying New Plants