Did you know that winter landscaping is a thing? It is! Do not think you have to wait until summer to begin planning for your dream backyard landscape. When the cold winter hits, start dreaming about your ideal backyard.
Planning, laying out a design and identifying architectural opportunities can all take place all winter long. In some cases, we can even start work while there is still a chill in the air.
Planning a Backyard Landscape
When planning your backyard landscape, you will want to start with a fairly accurate measurement of the space. If you are using a professional, he or she will visit your space to measure and survey the topography.
If this is a DIY job, then take measurements and sketch them onto some graph paper.
Once you have a good understanding of the space, you can start dreaming. Is there something you’ve always wanted in your yard? What do you like about other backyard landscape designs you have seen? How do you plan to use the space? How do you want the space to flow?
These are all important questions to ask. If you are working with a contractor, he or she will guide you through this process and make suggestions.
Lay Out a Backyard Landscape Design
After you have decided what you would like to see in the backyard, you can draw it into your grid or your designer will use a computer program to show you a 3D image of your future backyard landscape.
From here, you can edit the design to change the location of beds or features. At this point, individual plants, trees, and shrubs will start to be picked out based on your design.
If you are looking for privacy, taller, thicker plants will need to be chosen. If you want color, taking blooming times into consideration will be important.
At the end of this step, you will have a very good idea how the finished product will look.
Identifying Architectural Backyard Design Opportunities
Have you considered including any architectural pieces into your space? These might include a water feature, a sculpture, seating or archways.
Many people do not think about incorporating architectural pieces into their backyard landscape, and a professional landscape designer can help. A key piece can pull together your entire space and unify the design.
Ask your designer about architectural pieces when planning your backyard landscape.
Begin Work on Your New Backyard Design
Believe it or not, landscapers can start on your space long before the first buds of spring! Planning and designing your space can take place at any time during the winter.
Once design decisions have been made, it is even possible to begin some work. Of course, this all depends on the Indiana winter.
Plotting the design, clearing the space and more can take place depending on the temperature and the amount of snow on the ground.
Don’t think you have to wait until spring to start working on a new backyard landscape. Winter is a great time to start planning; landscape designers are usually less busy and you can benefit from that extra time.
If you are interested in a new backyard landscape and the project seems out of your reach, call Hittle! We have over 40 years of experience in Indianapolis backyards and look forward to working with you.
