Landscaping 101

So, you have either just moved to the country or you've been sitting on the land for a while. Either way, you are probably now overwhelmed by the task at hand: landscaping. Though landscaping an entire acreage can be a daunting undertaking, these few pointers will help turn your simple grassy lawn into a lush sanctuary.

Develop a plan

The first step toward developing a landscape is to devise a master plan or road map. "You need to have a plan," says Bob Rennebohm of Heard Gardens, Ltd. in West Des Moines, Iowa. "Take precise measurements of the area that you want to landscape. Even draw a sketch and be sure to indicate where underground cables are located. And pay attention to areas that have poor drainage or soil erosion.

"Then you want to research what plants or flowers will grow best in various areas on your property - sunny and shady," says Rennebohm.

Consider the functions and needs of your plants. Landscaping is not static. The area is in constant fluctuation. If a plant is placed under a young tree with the intent of allowing it to get sunlight, in a matter of years that same plant will be shaded as the tree matures. Examine the existing conditions of the land, as well as any buildings and prevailing winds. Choose plants that work well in their surroundings.

Mix it up

When focusing heavily on the needs of the plants you intend to use, you may begin to overlook the aesthetic value of the landscape itself. After all, who takes on a landscaping project simply for the work of it all? Have fun with your selections. Group plants that have the same requirements together - like water and sun exposure - but play with a mixture of heights, textures, and colors to create a diverse but composite look. For example, combining a boulder, ornamental grasses, and a blue spruce will create an area with depth and appeal.

Also, combine plants that will bloom at different times throughout the year. This way, each individual display will feature specific plants at certain times so an area won't sit dormant for an entire season. Visually, this will give you the most bang for your buck.

Maintenance and trends

It is important to understand that there will almost always be maintenance involved after you have your plants in the ground. Saplings and seedlings will need to be watered every day (as will many mature plants) unless you choose plants that can withstand the heat and sunlight. Also be aware that certain plants will need to be pruned as they grow.

Most compact shrubs don't need pruning and appear in bright, vibrant colors, which may factor into their popularity. Other favorite plants that are easy to maintain include ornamental grasses and hydrangeas, which only need to be pruned as they grow very old.

Landscaping not only adds beauty to your property but also can increase its value. Remember to devise a master plan and to consider the plants' functions and needs.