When you look at your yard, do you cringe? Do you have other more colorful adjectives for it? Do neighbors give each other knowing looks and decline when you tell them you’re having a backyard barbeque? You do not have to accept living with an ugly yard. Read this article instead, and get some tips that can aid you in making your home attractive to all who see it.

Take your soil in for for testing prior to starting any landscape or gardening project. This can give you valuable information about anything that your soil might be lacking in. You can use this information to make changes to the soil which will encourage healthy plant growth. That way, your plants stand a better chance of thriving.

Landscape design goes beyond plants and shrubs. Add in cement, iron or wood structures for increased texture. Archways, decks, birdbaths and pergolas all create beautiful and complex designs that are pleasing to the eye. You can buy these at a number of different prices to suit anyone’s pocketbook.

Online shopping

Many people overlook online shopping options when landscaping their properties. You not only will find online shopping more convenient, but will discover more choices if you look online. You may be able to buy rarer plants that are not native to your area at online stores.

Add an element of movement to your landscape design to prevent it from feeling too stiff and boring. From tall, swaying ornamental grasses to bright flowers that invite flitting hummingbirds. You have lots of options for making your yard feel alive. Movement adds visual interest, enticing you to spend time in the area that you’ve worked so hard to create.

Add some paving stones

Add some paving stones to your landscaping project, to create walkways. This can help to keep people off of your lawn, and it adds beauty to your property. You can line the walkways with some native flowers, to increase the beauty, and further enhance the appearance of your entire property.

Get the product that costs less

For some things, you can get the product that costs less. For instance, the cheaper mulch, potting mix and plant containers are perfectly fine for home landscaping purposes. Check your plants over carefully. The cheaper the plants are, the more closely you will probably have to inspect them to find ones that are in good condition.

Grow smaller plants

When you first begin growing plants, it may be wise to grow smaller plants. Not only do they require less watering, but they are easier to take care of. Once you get use to these plants, you may think about extending your plants by getting bigger ones, as long as you are prepared to care for them.

Speak often with your neighbors and friends about your landscaping plans. They may also want to do work on their yards, and you may be able to go in together to rent things like chippers or tillers. By sharing this equipment, you will all save money and be able to get your work done.

Armed with this new knowledge, you will create a yard that is the envy of your neighbors. The most difficult aspect is convincining your neighbors that you did it all on your own! Have fun and good luck!…