Landscaping is one element most homeowners ignore, but it can transform your home’s curb appeal. A well-designed landscape creates inviting spaces and enhances property value. This matters a lot in competitive real estate markets.
Let us take the example of Denver. According to Redfin, the housing market in the city is somewhat competitive. The average home sits on the market for 28 days and sells 1% below the list price. For a homeowner looking to sell, investing in landscaping can make a difference. Many Denver landscaping companies specialize in curb appeal upgrades to help boost property value.
Whether you want to sell a home or live in it for the long haul, you want it to look beautiful inside out. Landscaping is a great investment, but many homeowners fall into common traps that make these projects costly and frustrating. Understanding these pitfalls will help you avoid them and create a beautiful, functional, and sustainable landscape without spending a fortune.
Mistake #1: Missing Out on Planning and Budgeting
The worst blunder you can make is to dive into landscaping without a clear plan or realistic budget. Angi notes that professional landscaping in the US costs an average of $3,650. However, you can settle for a number between $200 and $15,000, depending on your expectations and budget. The good thing is that it can add serious curb appeal.
You may be tempted to start planting or building features as inspiration strikes. However, this approach can result in disjointed results and unexpected expenses. Planning is vital because it ensures harmony between all elements, such as plants, hardscapes, lighting, and irrigation.
Budgeting is equally important as it enables you to prioritize must-haves versus nice-to-haves. With this mindset, you can prevent overspending or running out of funds mid-project. When planning and budgeting, have a long-term vision. Consider future growth and changes to save time and money down the road.
Mistake #2: Skimping on Professional Expertise
According to Statista, nearly 26% of Americans in the 18 – 29 year age group are interested in DIY. Likewise, 26% of consumers in the 30 – 49 year group fall into the same category. That makes 1 in 4 Americans have a hands-on approach to things, including home improvement tasks.
DIY landscaping can be rewarding and it may save you some money, but not calling experts for specialized jobs is a mistake. Homeowners may underestimate the complexity of grading, drainage, or plant selection. Not leaving these projects to experts can lead to costly mistakes.
Professionals assess soil, sunlight, drainage, and microclimates to recommend the best layouts and plants. Similarly, tasks such as building retaining walls, installing irrigation, or creating patios require expertise. According to C&H Landscaping, experts also offer design insights to maximize the results of these projects.
Mistake #3: Overlooking Functionality
Lux Expose notes that modern homes are not just spaces to sleep, eat, and spend time with loved ones. People seek functionality and style that replicate their lifestyle preferences. For example, the allure of multifunctional zones where one can rest and indulge in self-care is high these days.
A beautiful landscape is only as good as its usability. If you focus solely on aesthetics and not considering how the space will be used, you are making a mistake. For example, poorly placed paths or plantings can make it hard to move around the yard. Not having gathering spaces on your patio or deck is another blunder. Also, you should not neglect shade and privacy in your outdoor space.
Creating a functional outdoor space is about mapping out how you want to use it, whether for entertainment, play, gardening, or relaxation. Also, plan for clear walkways and logical connections between spaces. Landscaping must also include features like pergolas, fences, or hedges for privacy and comfort.
Mistake #4: Overcrowding Plants
Overcrowding plants in your garden is another mistake you should avoid, notes Homes & Gardens. Experts warn that growing plants too close to each other can slow their growth. Plants end up struggling for room and nutrients. Over time, it can affect the growth of your garden, no matter how much you look after it.
Steer clear of overcrowding your plants as proper spacing allows them to reach their mature size quickly. Moreover, optimal airflow reduces fungal diseases and pest problems for a healthy yield. Maintenance ease is another plus as well-spaced plants are easier to prune, water, and care for.
Landscaping specialists suggest researching mature sizes before planting. You must also follow the recommended spacing guidelines. Most importantly, be patient and allow your landscape to fill in over time.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the basic elements of landscape design?
Landscape design comprises five elements. Line guides the eye and creates flow along the paths, edges, and borders. Form determines the shape of plants and structures, while color adds visual interest and mood with flowers, foliage, and hardscapes. The next element is texture, which represents the surface quality of plants and materials. Scale refers to the size relationship between elements and the overall space.
What are the DIY landscaping tasks you can handle?
Homeowners with steady pairs of hands can handle several landscaping tasks on their own. For example, planting flowers, shrubs, and small trees can be done with a DIY approach. Similarly, you can install edging or simple garden paths and build raised beds or small garden structures. Lawn care tasks like mowing, fertilizing, and aerating can also be done without professional help.
When should you call professional landscapers?
Not all landscaping tasks can be done as DIY projects. You must hire professionals for complex projects such as major grading, large tree removal, or intricate hardscaping. Professionals have the right expertise, skills, and equipment to handle these tasks safely and effectively.
Landscaping is a wise investment in your home’s beauty, value, and livability. However, you must not do it without proper planning and insight. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or working with professionals, a little foresight can help you achieve the landscape of your dreams.