Designing a new landscape from scratch requires as much work before ground is broken as it will after. These initial planning steps are vital for a successful landscaping plan.

1. Site Analysis

All designs begin with a thorough site analysis. Your landscape designer will map and forecast how the sun and wind will impact different areas of your property at different times of the year. Drainage patterns and water flow from irrigation across the soil must be determined, as well as the quality and composition of the soil. Your designer will effectively create a map of your yard, including those items that must remain in place, so that they can create a plan that works with your home. 

2. Usage Requirements

The next step is to determine your usage requirements for your landscaping. This includes the most utilitarian of patterns, such as the paths your family prefers to take to cut across the lawn to the garage. It will also include your goals for the landscape, such as a place to garden or entertain, or your need for a place for children and pets to play. Determining all of your needs upfront helps the designer create a working plan for the landscape. 

3. Climate Adjustments

As the plan begins to develop, small adjustments must be made for evolving climate considerations. For example, if there are trees on a neighboring property that will shade part of your lawn as they grow, your designer must select plants that can continue to thrive as sun exposure changes over the years. They may also need to choose plants that can handle larger climate changes, such as in areas where summers are hotter or longer. 

4. Style Considerations

All plants, ornamentation, and hardscaping must be designed in a manner that will complement the architecture of your home. Bungalows may look great with an informal cottage garden in the front yard, while a stately colonial home is much better served with formal beds and hedges framing its entrance. The style will also be considered from inside the home in order to ensure that there is an attractive view of the landscaping from inside, no matter what angle the window is at.

5. Construction Challenges

The last step is to check for any challenges to putting in the landscaping. Your designer will call to have underground utility lines marked, as these can impact the placement of certain things like deep-rooted trees. You may also need to have site grading or excavation done, depending on the design you settle upon. 

Contact a landscape design service for more help with your project today.