Don’t Wreck Your Curb Appeal: Landscaping Mistakes to Avoid
Landscaping is one of the best investments a homeowner can make to increase the value of their home. Money Magazine reported that a properly implemented and maintained landscape design could bring the recovery value of a home up by 100 to 200% at selling time. But not all gardens are perfect. A poorly designed landscape can end up costing a homeowner hundreds of extra dollars, or leave them with an ugly yard. Here are some landscaping mistakes that you should avoid when planning out your new yard.
Not Enough Planning
If you’re thinking about landscaping, you’re going to need a complete plan before implementing your landscape design. The first step in landscaping is to take inventory of your yard, making an analysis of soil, climate conditions, and any existing vegetation. Make sure the plants you choose are able to grow in your garden environment, or risk ending up with a yard full of dead plant life.
Neglectful Nurture
One of the biggest landscaping mistakes a homeowner can make is not watering enough, which causes your plants to wilt and die. Expert landscape architects suggest that a homeowner install a simple drip-irrigation system, which can be attached to a hose
and set on a timer.
No Predator Protection
Nobody will love your beautiful garden more than pests. Insects, rodents, and other hungry intruders will target your yard, leaving you with a barren yard. If you’re worried about pests, install deer fencing or chicken wire to protect your plants. You can also plant some pest repellents, such as anise, mint, bleeding heart, or fountain grass, which will keep away larger critters like deer or rabbits.
Forgetting Seasonal Changes
Not all plants last throughout the year. When planning your home landscape, keep in mind that the flowers you pick may not be in bloom all year round. If you choose plants that only bloom during one season, you’ll leave your yard looking underwhelming during the rest of the months. Try to opt for plants that last through all seasons, such as bushes or ferns.
How Landscaping Can Add Curb Appeal to Your Home
If you’re looking to beautify your home’s exterior, landscaping is a great way to create an eye-catching, beautiful yard. But many homeowners may not understand the benefits that come with a professional landscape design. Besides creating an aesthetically
pleasing front yard, many contemporary garden designs have practical applications that can make your life a little easier.
It Can Lower Your Bills
Landscaping that is properly selected, placed, and maintained can actually save you money on your monthly heating or cooling costs. During the warmer months, plants and bushes can block the sun from entering your home, keeping your house’s internal temperature
cooler, so you don’t have to keep raising the AC. These plants also help during the winter, as they can prevent cool wind from entering your home.
It Increases Your Privacy
Your home should be a place to relax, separate from the rest of the world. But this isn’t always the case, especially if you have multiple neighbors or live on a busy street. Certain landscape designs can help give your home the privacy you need. For example, planting a tree in your yard can reduce bothersome noise by up to 50%, as stated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Landscaping can also be a good way to create separation between yards, rather than having to put up large, expensive fencing.
It Improves The Value of Your Home
Whether you’re looking to sell your home, refinance, or just raise its value, landscaping is a great investment. A report by Money Magazine stated that landscaping can bring a recovery value of 100 to 200%. Gardens that are attractive and well kept will
boost the sale price of a home, as first impressions are often the most lasting for potential home buyers.