Factors You Need to Consider Before Landscaping
Whether you have the experience or not, landscaping can only be a success if you have a plan in place. It is much beneficial to know the main determinants that are prone to affect the landscape. In this article, you will gain insights on how to make your landscaping successful.
Site analysis is a crucial factor. You have to know the size and shape of the site since it will be useful when designing. Meanwhile, take note of any distinctive features such as slopes. The reason for this is that they are capable of creating a micro climate that determines the amount of sun and shade that some of the parts of the site will receive. You need to know the soil type of the area since it determines the most favorable plants.
You should have an idea of how the land will be used. It is beneficial to make a hierarchical list of all the activities that will occur on the area. If you are working on a landscape that will be used for various functions, it is beneficial to have strategic plantings that will ensure everyone gets satisfied. After knowing who will use the landscape, you also have to consider maintenance. It is therefore essential to know the amount of money and time you are willing to use in maintaining the landscape. Ground covers come in handy if you have no ideas on who will use the landscape.
You have to know the theme of the scene. It is essential to understand that the design of your choice should be capable of unifying the architecture and the plants. An excellent theme will guide you in knowing the right plants and structure and moreover, where to place them. You can easily plan a suitable design by considering the lines and techniques used in the architecture of your home. Another option is selecting either geometric shapes or colors for different areas in the landscape. You should also consider viewing the site from different places as you will have an idea of the areas that need considerable concentration.
You need to know how to create and link spaces in the landscape. Sectioning your landscape will help you get the most out of it. Plants are quite handy in pointing out the different sections of the landscape and restricting access to other areas. Low growing plants are used in order to avoid moving to the next section while high ones block their view. You also need to understand that spaces are only functional when they are linked. It is advisable to leave openings that will encourage movement and exploration. For example, walkways are useful structures in guiding and restricting movement to the next space. Your choice of hardscapes and plants will determine how effective your areas and links will be.