It is not hard to do landscaping work. There is no need to get in a backhoe to move great clumps of earth; simply work with what is there. For instance, if there is an area that always seems damp, then choose plants that like those conditions. If shade seems to be the biggest area in the garden, growing shade-loving plants will solve any problems.
Landscaping Plant Options
Landscaping brings nature closer to home. But it includes many elements: the area, design, climate and others. The overall look depends not only on the owner’s taste, but his budget, soil type and general climate. Some people want the effect of water such as pools, waterfalls, or fountains while others love rocks and stones. Annuals are a favourite of many gardeners, but growing perennials is easier because they do not have to be replaced as often.
If entertaining in the garden is important, lots of green lawn space will be necessary as well as enough garden and shrubbery to make it interesting. If there are children who like to play games outside, lawn space is also necessary. In these cases, gardens around the boundaries of the property or to one side will create more space for activities.
To create a natural feel, plants of some kind must be used, whether they are prickly cactus, palms and ferns, annuals, perennials, shrubs or trees – or better still, a mix of these. Other elements of landscaping include the use of garden furniture and other hardware such as statues, birdbaths, paths and rockeries. Whatever is chosen, it needs to reflect the lifestyle of the owners so that they get the most use and pleasure possible out of their outdoor space.
Different Plants for Landscaping
Check Out: Best Landscape Trees
Sun-Loving Plants. Sunny areas may be considered problematic in very hot areas. Many plants do not like direct sunlight. Juniper groundcovers and hardy perennials are very helpful in resolving this problem. It is possible to create dappled shade by growing trees that spread out, forming a canopy over the garden. However, there are many plants that love hot sun and in temperate climates sun-lovers are necessary to fill the garden with colour.
Shade-loving plants cannot stand the heat of direct sunlight. They should be used in areas that are not exposed to the sun except for short periods of time. Many of the shade-loving plants are low-growing or mid-sized. Shade does not necessarily mean cool conditions. Some shade is warm and humid.
Plants that attract insects. Many flowering plants attract birds, butterflies, bees, etc. It is important to choose plants whose flowers carry pollens and nectar. Plants like bee balm, hollyhock and red columbine attract hummingbirds.
Check Out: 8 Beneficial Bugs for Our Gardens
Aromatic plants. The garden can be made aromatic by using foliage plants as well as through the perfume of flowers. The lavender perennial plant’s flowers provide therapeutic scent. At the same time, it serves as a beautiful border. Roses are said to have the most beautiful scent, though some believe the gardenia is even better.
Check Out: Fragrant Winter Shrubs: Perfuming Your Garden
Plants that like wet feet. Some landscapes come with wet areas like artificial ponds or waterfalls. To avoid leaving it bare, plants that thrive in wet soils are used to give beauty and natural effect. Many lilies and ferns love damp areas.
Repellent plants. More than coming up with a good landscape, it is also necessary to maintain it and keep it free from intruders. Some plants are able to repel pests like the deer. Some ornamental grasses and flowers are used for deer control.
Grasses. Ornamental grasses can be used for landscaping just like flowers. They can be mixed with trees and shrubs or can stand alone.
Check Out: Wild Rose – Add One to Your Landscape
All plants are beautiful, but appropriate ones must be selected for the site under consideration. They must thrive to serve their purpose. They should also be planted with consideration given to their width and height. If a large, pendulous shrub is planted near a plant that is small and delicate, the latter will not be seen. It may even die because it cannot compete for food with the bigger plant.
Statues, seating and fountain features can be used to good effect, especially in problem areas where lawn or plants will not grow.