After you have read through this article, you should have a better understanding of how to achieve a great looking landscape at the lowest possible rate. If you need further clarification, it would be wise to hunt around in the landscape books section of your local bookstore or library.

Steps in landscaping

The most important thing to remember with landscaping is harmony. This harmony applies to the actual process of creating the landscape as well - if you don't follow the steps properly, you will end up stressed and the design will not be what you wanted. Refer to the following table for the correct sequence of events in planning and constructing your landscape.

Table1: Landscaping Sequence

Step 1 - Installation of irrigation and drainage. Step 2 - Construction of patios, walls, fences, paths and other permanent fixtures. Step 3 - Planting the desired trees, shrubs and other plants. Step 4 - Creating a lawn.

Devising a landscaping plan

It is vital to any successful landscape that it has a good plan or design sheet. This plan can significantly reduce your workload, obtaining the best results for your efforts. The plan should commence with a careful measurement of the plot, after which a scaled plan is created.

Plotting a scale graph

The first step in this process is measuring out your yard, or plot. If you are unsure as to how to do this, it may be possible to get a deed map of your property from your builder or county office. These maps are drawn to scale and they can be converted easily if necessary. If you cannot obtain one, you will have to create your own using a scale and graph paper. In this case, you will have to measure the perimeter of your property, noting boundaries and distances from the house to these boundaries. Remember to include significant elements such as driveways and fences. Using a scale, note these on the graph paper and draw your plan using the scale. A scale of 1 inch = 10 feet is a good measure. Be sure to note any existing trees or shrubs that you wish to retain on the graph also.

Site analysis

Once you have worked out the scale and know what is already on the site, you will have to work out what can be fitted in and what will have to go. Consider the following:

* With regard to existing trees and shrubs, work out which ones must be kept and those that can be removed for extra space.

* Think about the climatic conditions in your area such as wind, snow, rainfall etc. This will be of assistance regarding the placement of walls, fences and sheds as protection.

* Look at how you want the yard to be used. Do you want to include a play area for the children, or an entertainment area? Where do you want your gardens to be situated?

* Work out a rough estimate of your budget. What can you allocate as regards time and money for ongoing maintenance?

* Will you be including a structure such as a fountain or waterfall? Do you want a pool? Will these be future inclusions?

* Do you intend to use brick, flagstone or gravel etc for paths or driveways?

* How much lawn do you require? What will it be used for?

The answers to these questions will also be helpful in working out what plants and other landscaping materials you wish to include in the design as well as deciding upon a theme or style for the garden.

Drawing a bubble graph

This is a rough sketch that shows the position and layout of each element, which are shown by the use of bubbles, which gives the graph its name. You can create this graph by placing tracing paper over the scale graph, ensuring that there are allowances for plant growth included.

This "bubble" graph should include all the elements of the landscape design, from where the plants will be situated to the size and direction of paths, placement of outdoor structures, irrigation systems, inclusion of a small pond, and the list goes on. It is a good idea to take a walk through the yard, taking note of where the elements will be and sketching them in as you go.

Planning an irrigation system

You cannot consider a landscaping design complete without the addition of an irrigation system. You can choose either a sprinkler or drip irrigation system, but if you are considering installing the system yourself, do your homework. If you think that this is too difficult a task for you, consult an expert, making sure that you take a copy of the plans with you.