Landscape Edging

After a landscape has been implemented, it will have to be maintained. Landscape maintenance is the work involved, in keeping the landscape attractive, healthy, safe and clean. It is necessary to plan and carry out plantings, weeding and fertilising periodically. In addition, caring the lawn, pruning of shrubs and hedges, topiary (trimming/clipping of shrubs into exotic shapes), caring the plants and topsoil and other gardening is also part of landscape maintenance. Moreover swimming pool, drainage, lighting, other elements like rock garden, gazebo, pond, driveway, walkway and fencing must also be taken care of. When planning the landscape, it is absolutely necessary to design for low maintenance. If you lose that perspective, you will be spending much time doing maintenance around the grounds.

Landscaping maintenance is usually tied to the landscaping design. Both the present and future needs must be incorporated into the landscape design. It is better for the shade trees to be located on the eastern and western exposures of the yard. On the southern side, let winter sunlight warm the house. Thus sun and wind needs are controlled to some extent. In addition to this, storm runoff and soil drainage must be considered. Drainage must be properly designed, as excess water pools will be breeding ground for mosquitoes. Using a contour plan of the grounds, learn the natural flow of water channels, and then develop the drainage system. A retaining wall might be needed on a slope to avoid soil erosion. For good drainage, lower areas might need change of grade or additional fill of soil. All landscaping maintenance must be carried out, as per specifications. For instance, mow and water the lawn regularly, but do not water it overly. The grass must neither be cut too short, nor let it be overgrown. The yard must be aerated for health, once a year. Give the grounds all the care it requires.

It is necessary to do the soil test to find out the need for fertilisers and soil amendments. Determine when soil benefits from doses of organic matter. Do not till under the established trees, as it might destroy the roots of the trees, causing their death or decline. It might be imperative to amend small soil pockets every year, within many of the tree's root zone. The landscaping design must concentrate on enhancing aesthetics, as well as lower landscaping maintenance. The area landscaped must be in accordance with the ability to do landscaping maintenance.

It is better for plants to be massed together in special groups, than be scattered about. Xeriscape landscaping is beneficial for low maintenance. It is better to group plants and trees with similar environmental needs. Mixing of plants with dissimilar needs will make it difficult to provide the required light and water. Xeriscape landscaping will also make landscaping maintenance much easier, by easing the trimming and hand edging the around the individual plants. Furthermore, plants or trees with some minor flaws are shielded partially, enabling some convenient landscaping maintenance. The grass chosen for the lawn must be of the thriving quality, ones that will stay healthy, throughout all the seasons. Elements like water features and statues must be designed for least landscaping maintenance and care. A Sweeping vista, though dramatic, is harder to maintain. Flowers and turf need more maintenance than plants. Excess turf areas must be planted with low maintenance plants or shrubs and trees, as they need much lesser landscaping maintenance. Hardscape features need much lower maintenance. Edging around the beds, sidewalks and fences must be done in a way, which reduces the landscaping maintenance.

Check regularly for insect, and disease outbreaks. Study the tolerable level of injury by pests. If only a branch or some leaves have been affected, it is much easier to remedy. Well-established deciduous trees are able to withstand full defoliation with much lesser consequences. Clean up the dead leaves in the pond regularly on a weekly basis, and prune the unnecessary growth. A pond less waterfall is much more easier to maintain, as there is no worry about water filtration and algae control.

Landscape lighting helps to combine functionality and aesthetics. Moreover, they can add uniqueness, character and safety to outdoor landscaping. Eventually from task lighting, with the advent of the latest trends of modern technology, lighting fixtures have been given an extra dimension. There is a whole range of styles, shapes, sizes and materials in outdoor fixtures. Landscape lighting design first identifies the need for outdoor landscaping. Activities like entertaining, cookouts, and family get together, dancing, sports and security need different landscape lighting. Furthermore the landscape lighting needs proper outlets that are weather proofed and dust proofed. This is to avoid accidents, shorting or other problems. Electricians and landscape people must combine their work, to get the necessary configuration and the system type. In addition, ensure safety and aesthetics.

Lighting fixtures help to create the right type of impression. Decorative lighting is a most important accessory. Selection of lighting fixtures is also dependent on the architectural configuration. Outdoor landscape lighting is not just adding lighting fixtures outdoors. They must add that extra touch of style, beauty, excitement and colour to the landscape. Outdoor landscape lighting can highlight the textures of outside walls, floors and roofs to make outdoor landscape more attractive. This is true for new landscape designing, as well as redesigning the existing landscape.

The outdoor lighting systems can be low voltage and high voltage. 220 or 120 current can be wired, depending on the particular system, location, current needed and provision for using necessities like lawn maintenance tools. There are different colour combinations, though lots of people prefer white lighting, as they are similar to natural light.

• Landscape lighting for creating beauty, elegance and interest to the outdoor landscape include:
• Simplified traditional: Simplified without any excess.
• Soft contemporary: Modern, simple, warm and clean style.
• Casual elegance: Casual lighting, upscale in design to create comfortable, clean and warm atmosphere.
• Safety and residential security:
• Motion detecting spotlights
• After dark security lighting that is manually operated.
• Lighting that automatically responds to darkness, even during daytime, when it is dark.

• Uplights : In-ground and spot fixtures pointing to highlight the outdoor elements and trees, usually located at the ground level.
• Downlights : Highlight objects like small garden elements, walkways and outdoor area, for creating the illusion of natural light.
• Backlights : Hidden outdoor lighting fixtures, which create the shadow effects.
• Pathlights: It is a variation of downlights, located nearer to the ground. Spreads light on pathways, driveways, sideways and trails.

• Focus Pocus: For creation of focal points, by directing light to a particular spot.
• Space Case: To add drama to a particular area through accent lighting.
• Dim Some: To create a special mood by manipulating light. Can be used at poolside and patios and decks as additional lighting. They are inexpensive.

Visual impact of the light can be subtle or dramatic. They should blend the outside elements with the house, and enhance the appearance of both the outdoor landscape and the house. With outdoor lighting and all the other elements, an outdoor oasis can be created. Many of the outdoor lighting is to highlight the elements, while the lighting by itself is unattractive and needs to be hidden. Instead of going overboard, add gentle touches to highlight the landscape design.

Stones symbolise the relationship between mankind and nature. Landscaping with stones make it possible to bring nature, as close as possible to the human beings. The landscaping stones help to give life, versatility and beauty to the landscape. Landscaping with stones is also termed as hardscape. There is a wide variety of landscaping stones, in different colours, sizes, shapes and texture. First identify the structures that must be constructed with landscaping stones. Then choose stones with the desired features, like shape, size, colour and even texture. The landscaping stones can be used to develop a stunning, charming, relaxing, peaceful and comfortable atmosphere. Besides use of landscaping stones can make a great first impression, and continue to produce a scenic visual impact.

Landscaping stones allow gardens to realise their full potential, by making them look fantastic, visually. Yet they can be appealing, modern, unique and tranquil. Decorating with natural stones creates a contrast with the other elements. Moreover landscaping stones like natural rocks also make an interesting and attractive sitting area for the family, to enjoy the garden. Furthermore landscaping stones can be arranged strategically to create a focal point. In addition, they can be positioned to hide the existing imperfections and instead become points of visual appeal. A rock garden can be done in two ways. The common way is to pile up stones in harmonious groups. Besides this, another way is to make a bedrock look like a natural outcropping. Meanwhile plants can grow in small gaps in these rock groupings. Rock gardens must have a carefully designed drainage arrangement to drain excess water.

A popular way of using rocks is in the Japanese landscaping method. Japanese landscaping is done in circular or square patterns. One way is by placing smooth stones, in different patterns. Japanese landscaping can be done outside as well as inside, and even in small areas. Since these rocks are shiny black, flat, small and smooth, it can be arranged in a variety of ways. These stones are usually available with the Japanese dealers. Another way is by combining three elements: stone, water and plants. Similarly a Zen garden combines strategically black rocks and a stretch of sand, usually white in colour. However, when using landscaping stones, it is better not to use dark coloured stones in shady or dark corners. On the other hand, bright coloured stones can make the environment, more stimulating.

For landscaping, both natural and artificial rocks are used. Different stones used are pebbles, cobbles, sandstones, limestone, marble, granite, river rocks, Japanese rocks and others.

• Cobblestones formed from the riverbeds are used for pathways, demarking, grass patterns, grass verges, tree surrounds, pool surrounds and garden edges.
• Pebble stone, a natural stone is used for walkways, pools, pool decks, fountains, landscaping, patios, water features and barbecue areas.
• Sand stones are used for making walls. Generally available in blends of blue and pink.
• Slate is used in waters, and is available usually in black, green and red colour.
• Limestone, available in common shades, is used in walls.
• Marble is used for paving and walls, and is used in hues of white, pink and yellow.
• Granite, an igneous stone is easy to maintain and is usually seen in dark colours.
• River rocks are very durable and perfect for retaining walls and walkways.
• Flagstones are smooth and thin and perfect for patios and walkways.

For pathways, use coarse stones, as it is slip resistant. Landscaping stones can be used to create attractive borders and edges, in different decorative patterns. Sandstone, granite and marble are used extensively in landscaping. Then too, landscaping stones are used in walls, patio floors/walls, decks, stonewalls, pergola columns, terracing and steps. The stones chosen are also dependent on the budget. By using expensive stones, value of the property can be increased.

Pool landscaping needs great care. Pool landscaping can be done to create a haven of grandeur and magnificence. Apart from aesthetics, poolside landscaping must be absolutely conscious of safety, comfort and privacy. The main reason for doing pool landscaping is to make it the focal point of the yard. In addition to complimenting the pool, pool landscaping must be a feast for the eyes, as well as allow the pool to be completely functional. Moreover, pool landscaping must not be larger than the pool itself.

Pools can be of either vinyl or concrete. Although concrete pools are more costly, they offer a wide range of shapes and sizes. Poolside can be painted with vibrant colours to give life to hard surfaces. Otherwise use different varieties of decorative edging and tiles in swimming pool design. Changing rooms/cottages attractively designed can be included in the pool landscaping design. Big umbrellas and poolside furniture are useful accessories. By building decks or patios with a view to the poolside, gives an opportunity to gaze hypnotically in the water and relax. In addition, paved pathways to the decks and patios can give an added appeal. Other features that can be added include a decorative fountain with a fountain terrace, water slide or a waterfall.

Plants, especially ones that produce vibrant colourful flowers, add beauty by softening the concrete pool surfaces, and projecting a natural appearance. By planting trees, privacy can be maintained. Besides they also give shade from the glare of the sun, to relax by the poolside. Broad-leafed evergreen trees, ground covers and ornamental grasses are good choices for a swimming pool landscape design of low maintenance. A natural appeal, which is at the same time rustic, can be created with the help of rocks and boulder. They include different varieties of sizes and shapes, for making an exotic rock garden. Growing vines can beautify pool fences, besides giving privacy. . To enhance the pool at night, install underwater lights, especially in the deep end. Lighting helps to brighten up the place and set a good mood.

The poolside and the path must be slip resistant. Bricks, natural stones or pavers can be used, but not wood. Pavers are more expensive, but they come in a variety of colours and patterns. In addition to this, they move with the ground movements, instead of cracking, thus providing more longevity. Bricks of rough surfaces have traction and can also be used. On the other hand, wood is slippery, and will warp and splinter in the long run. Addition of pool fence is an unavoidable necessity, for the safety of the kids. The pool fence limits access to the pool, to avoid accidents. Latticed fences are tall enough to ensure privacy, as well as lets in light. Moreover they can be a windbreaker. Trees should not hang over the swimming pool. Otherwise it will be a nuisance to keep the water clean. Do not have plants that are attractive to bees, bugs and insects, deciduous trees and fruit bearing trees near the pool. Plants and trees with wide reaching roots must be avoided, as it can be destructive to the pool and cause maintenance problems. Such trees and plants if used must be planted beyond eight feet, to avoid encountering such problems.

Garden Landscaping must create a convenient and comfortable outdoor area, to commune with nature, and have a good time. Before starting the garden landscaping develop the garden design. It is necessary to consider the location, layout and size of the garden, the different views, soil type, climate, wind and budget. This is to have an idea about the various elements that can be included in the garden. Moreover it also helps to develop the theme and style of the garden design. The size of the garden, climate and soil mainly determine the garden landscaping. If the size of the garden is large, and there are not much budget constraints, there will be much more freedom in indulging the fantasies about the garden landscaping.

Garden Landscaping involve marking the different existing details like trees, plants, shrubs, house, driveway, pond and fence on the garden design. The next step is to decide how all these elements can be included in the garden design. Then take decisions about the inclusion of other elements like patio, deck, swimming pool, fountain, decorative features, and gazebo. Find the best places where these elements can be located and the types of elements that are to be used. Do not do piecemeal planting. Always have the overall frame in mind. Good planning helps in energy conservation.

Garden Landscaping can be done either formally or informally. Garden Landscaping is done depending on the size of the garden. If the size of the garden area is small, develop a garden design for a small garden. This entails a more focus on details. It also means not giving into the temptation to include as much of the categories as possible. The garden should not be cramped, confining and cluttered. Make use of what little space there is. The type of plants selected to some extent decides this, and to some extent, it is decided by the garden design. The shapes, sizes, colours and textures can be used to create the theme of the garden and also to create an illusion of more space. For instance, woodland garden will mimic, the nature's way of planting trees and shrubs. Hardscape must use natural materials like stone, rocks and wood. Large garden landscaping can be done usually in a much more formal style with everything arranged precisely. Strong geometry, symmetrical layout, clipped hedges and long axial views are all the characteristics of the formal gardens. For instance, the knot gardens, in formal garden style encourage precise use of plants used for edging and conform to precise measurements. But there is no rule that large gardens must adopt the style. Large garden landscaping can arrange every element as desired, and not follow any strictures. Large gardens enable a place for kids to be close to nature and play.

Garden Landscaping use shades of two or more colours to generate a great impact. The size of the plants used should be consistent, with the area available for the garden. If the idea is to use plenty of plants to give the lush look, then use the same species than a great variety of plants. Similarly use a few varieties of plants in two or three colours, repeatedly to get a deep look. Depth can be given by using the appropriate wall colours. For instance, white walls give the perception of prolonging space. Black colour on a corner wall gives the appearance of shadow, creating the feeling of stretching the garden. More interest can be created by special grouping of plants or by the creation of different levels. The different levels can have different themes. Arbour, trellis, bridges, rock gardens, birdbaths and gazebos can provide the partition between different areas. By using curves, a small garden can be made to appear as if it is opening up to look bigger. For example, curved flowerbeds, curved brick or stone walkway and retaining walls.

Roofed decks are a great place to enjoy nature and fresh air after a hard day or for entertaining. Awning provides shade to the deck and protection from natural elements. Visualise the fountain that will best fit the garden. The choice of the garden fountain is dependent on the size and style of the garden. Garden ponds can be the home of fish, plants and wildlife. A decorative waterfall or underwater lights will enhance the beauty of the pond. Gazebos are comfortable, though open gives protection from sun and rain. Japanese gardens are low maintenance, simple, affordable and encourages tranquillity. Lawn can provide feast for the eye, be a place for kids to play and enjoy quality time. Focal points give a place of special interest where the family can while away the relaxing hours.

Backyard landscaping can turn a backyard, into a place of retreat. Backyard can be designed into an enjoyable and relaxing getaway. Backyard can be landscaped as a place to escape, be peaceful or as a spot to have fun. Customise the patio or deck, with suitable designs and effects. The land area available, topography and foliage concentration must all be taken into account, before determining the type of feasible backyard landscaping. The space available for backyard landscaping, can be determined from the land area. Backyard landscaping must achieve a sense of unity, through consistency, repetition, selection and design centred on a focal point. It must be in harmony with the front yard. There must be a central theme. Don't include too much decorations and plants. Aim for an uncluttered look.

The backyard landscaping can be designed as a place to be wild and freak out, or as a tropical getaway or as a restful place. Backyard can reflect your personality. If opting for the wild look, the backyard can spot lots of vibrant flowers and wild flowers. On the other hand, for a tropical look, plant harmonising, exotic and vibrant flowers and fruit trees. Backyard landscaping can be pleasing to the eye, if symmetry is maintained in texture, form, colour and size of the plants. The shrubs and trees can be selected to achieve the four-season interest. The planting season must be staggered, to distribute beauty equally on all four seasons.

Addition of a deck or a patio will give extra entertaining or family space. The place can be done up in romantic colours. Further more with some rugs on the floor and comfortable furniture, and a roof, nature can be enjoyed even in unpleasant weather. Moreover to make it a private sanctuary, plant hedges or shrubs or a fence can be used. Besides hedges can be pruned to give an ornamental look. Specialists in the domain, create custom made décor, on demand. Concrete patios similar to wood or brick, can also be made. When planning, keep in mind the use or purpose of the area and the number of people that will occupy the area.

Through proper designing, backyard can be made into a unique getaway. The fencing can be created by marriage between function and form. Metal fences and chain linking fences makes superior security fences. If wood fences are used, their compatibility with the style of the landscape and that of the house must be considered. Fences not only give privacy, they also serve as visual and sound barriers. If fences are in harmony with the other elements, they help to serve as compelling backgrounds or foregrounds. The backyard can include a swimming pool, or rock garden. To create the desired effect, paths can be paved with concrete slabs or natural stones.

Water gardens and ponds help to keep fish in them, and draw in birds and butterflies. A birdbath is another attraction for birds. Water not only draws wildlife, but also provides an atmosphere that is picturesque and relaxing. The sound of water is very calming and soothing and a waterfall can be planned. Locate the water garden, where it can be seen from the patio or deck. However it must blend with the other elements. Landscaping around the pond, make it a habitat for birds and frogs. In addition, add floating, emergent and submerging plants to the pond. If there is no space for a pond in the backyard, place large water bowls in the deck or patio to get the same benefit.

Backyard landscaping must design zones for different activities like gardening, entertaining, play area for kids and games like shuttle, tennis or badminton if there is space. Concentrate on framing personal spaces, accentuating hardscape, landscaping rocks and hiding unwanted areas. Backyard landscaping focuses on creating usable living areas than in the front yard, which is mostly designed for appeal and show.

Yard Landscaping is an art, which sets the aesthetic balance between the different elements of a yard. While designing both the hardscape and softscape of a yard, the basic elements of landscape design like focal point, scale, texture, line, form and colour must be considered. The scale of the yard determines the incorporation of different elements. As proportion is the key, it must be cohesive, with the yard scale and the architecture of the house. The yard elements must not overshadow the other elements. First determine the theme. Often landscaping yards involves maintaining lawns, different plants and flowers. If the lawn is larger, it will require more landscaping and maintenance. Usually the theme is the colour element. Yard landscaping involves creation of a family of colours that are aesthetic and suitable to your tastes. These colours must also be complimentary to the house. The “form “comprise of the architecture of the house, plants, lawn, and other elements of the yard.

Materials that can be used for the flooring of the yard comprise of grass, patios and decks. The walls can be built from formal or informal hedges or hardscape elements like fences and latticed screens can be used. Ceiling can be comprised of canopies of trees, pergolas and arbour, or umbrellas and awning.

Yard landscaping involves depicting the scenery visualised for the yard. For this it is necessary to plan, design and maintain. If through lack of foresight, yard landscaping is not done intelligently, it will suffer visually. Decide where to have the lawn, the hardscape, and the locations for plants, the type of flowers and plants to be bought. Also decide the level of maintenance involved in landscape maintenance. To reduce plant maintenance, select plants whose requirements are in tandem with the conditions in the yard and your goals. For many, the yard landscaping includes landscaping both front and back yards.

Front yard is often semi functional, but mostly it is for show. When designing the front yard, many factors like the nature of the land, movement of vehicles and the sunlight plants get must be taken into account. First, consider if the land is sloped or flat. Sloped land is more attractive, as it develops a visual balance with the house. To change the levels, topsoil can be added to grade the yard. Get a sense of the levels, slope of the property and the drainage. For flat lands, provide rainwater gutters or paved floors to drain away the rainwater. Vehicular and human movement pattern must be clearly defined. Plant a tree, where it will give relief from the heat. But the tree must not hide the house. Building patios or decks helps to provide a transition between outdoor and indoor living. Water features can be installed for any budget – from cheap water features to decorative fountains. After deep soul searching, lock upon a distinctive landscape style suitable to your lifestyle, budget and tastes.

Yard landscaping becomes fun, simple and inexpensive with flower gardening. First step in flower gardening, is finding out what type of flowers is suitable for the local climate. Some of the flowers thrive in the shade; some do better in partial sun and some flowers glories in the sun. Select the type of look before planting. For instance, stepping stone style has tall flowers in the rear and short flowers in the front. Wild plant style mixes a variety of flowers of different varieties, heights and colours to get a charming, maybe a meadow look. Put in extra work before planting, to save much work and money in the long run. Attempt to create a classic balance of whimsy in the yard by including a cute garden sign or a garden gnome. Yard landscaping must incorporate both the front and back yards, so that they flow together.

A well-deigned residential landscape can be functional and at the same time, pleasant to the senses. Residential landscaping is modifying or arranging the elements of the yard/grounds, to enhance the function and aesthetics. While doing residential landscaping, it must cater to the needs and pleasures of the family, add to the value of the property, and enhance the view of the neighbourhood. Residential landscaping often need to be done from scratch, or else to rectify the deficiencies, and improve the appearance. The first thing to do in residential landscaping is to consider, how to make the landscape look great, within the budget. But functionality is more important than aesthetics. It is possible to have both, but residential landscaping must be concerned about safety, usability and convenience. Careful planning is needed to achieve maximum results, within the constraints. Imagine the whole area and the final effect you want.

Front and back yard landscaping are different. For the front yard, the main objective is to attract the attention of viewers and create an impact, with the first impression itself. The back yard can be spiffy, as well as functional. Decide on what purposes the yard will be used. For example, entertaining, play area for kids, sports, exercising, relaxing or landscaping with dogs. If it is mainly for relaxation and contemplation in solitude, lawn area can be small, while incorporating more trees and plants. On the other hand, if the yard is to be used for entertainment and as a playing area for kids and for sports like tennis or badminton, a large area can be used for the lawn. A good plan integrates all the existing elements in the yard in a way that is most attractive. Never overcrowd and minimise moving space. Develop a list of the elements to be included, and materials preferred. While preparing the plan, take into consideration all the natural elements like soil, sunlight, wind and climate.

Always follow the triad of principles in residential landscaping, like focalisation, balance and rhythm, to control the different visual movements. Outdoor elements like outdoor furniture and also furniture for deck, patio or gazebo need to be in harmony with the home décor. Decide on the right style, type, their number, location and material. Furniture must be comfortable and maintained properly. Moreover if the yard is big, different spaces can be created with living walls like hedges or adding walkways with a destination to a focal point or a sitting area.

Indoor residential planning helps to pump life into rooms. Container gardening is the usual choice. Pots or ewer can be placed around in vantage points and corners, and/or hung in the balcony or the windows. In this way, the entrance lobby, family room, living room, patios and any other areas can be made more striking and vivid. Indoor residential landscaping has to be in harmony with the other décor, and need to be incorporated with the decorative theme of different rooms.

When executing the plan, decide on the sequence of pattern to implement the ideas, in an efficient and time saving manner. Action must be taken according to the schedule, promptly and without side tracking. After all the steps have been implemented, and the landscape is ready, it is not the end. Afterwards, proper maintenance and care is required, to keep up the beautiful landscape.

Landscape Design is an art practiced for practical or aesthetic purposes, and need planning. It involves the modification or arrangement of an area or landscape. The landscape plan is an integral part of any yard or garden. Landscape planning involves hardscape and softscape design. The hardscape comprises of the inanimate elements like woodwork – decks, arbour etc. masonry work- brick or concrete patios, tile paths, and stonewalls; home accents – water fountains. Softscape design is the designing of animate elements like horticultural elements- plants, trees, shrubs, lawns, and gardens. In short, landscaping plans include vegetation and accentuating structures. The complexity of a landscaping plan is dependent on the property size, soil, existing plants, trees and other elements. The final landscaping plan must enhance the looks of the property, and must be an invitation to linger outdoors. So it is important to visualise what the final appearance will be. Landscaping plans can also help to raise the real estate value of the property by almost 15 percent.

In the landscaping plan, if the area to be landscaped is large, in the design there will be a foreground, middle ground and background. Plant flowering shrubs in the foreground. Middle ground is for shrubs where colourful foliage grows and for medium sized trees. The background can comprise of large trees and irregular growth and shrubs, to break the monotony. .

The main elements of landscape plan include:

• Form - Shape of plants, structure of pattern of branching.
• Scale - Proportion
• Texture – Relative. Form of individual plant/tree type different from the other types.
• Line – The arrangement of plants and animals governs the eye movement.
• Colour - The colour theory categorises spectrum into four classifications as a wheel, sliced into various hues.
• Primary – Blues, reds and yellows
• Secondary - Oranges, purples and greens.
• Tertiary - Mixtures of the above two
• Neutral – Greys, silvers, white
• Harmony

Excellent landscaping plans are half of the project, and it must accommodate the changes. It is essential to have an understanding of nature. This feeling helps in the creation of a beautiful landscape. A good landscaping plan, helps to save future money and time. Moreover the landscape plan chosen, must be perfect for the ground. First draw a plan of the property and decide the elements that must be incorporated – attractive lounging facility, barbecue, rock garden, play house, fences, playing courts, pools etc. If the ground is not sufficiently large, it will be difficult to include everything. So after analysing the family's interests, habits and hobbies, decide on the most desirable elements that can be incorporated. Some elements can serve a dual purpose. For instance, if there is a retaining wall, adding rock garden species and hardy small shrubs will help to create a rock garden. Similarly a fence can serve as a windbreaker, as well as a shield against unpleasant view from the family lounging area. Visualise where the various activity areas should be and how it must look. Furthermore identify the movement patterns to design the driveway and walkway, if they are to be included. Decide whether the garden must be formal with rigid precision, semiformal or informal. Include the gradient or slope changes and drainage in the plan.

The most basic feature in a landscaping plan is the presence of fine trees. Trees not only enhance the appearance and change the line of a house, but also help to provide shade from hot sun, protection from winds, lessen the noises from the roads and amount of dust. Shady trees can help to convert the area as a family lounge, or as a play area for