The need for landscaping design ideas is as critical now as it has ever been. Low-maintenance landscaping designs are, in fact, one of the most popular landscaping design trends of recent years and they’re going to continue to enjoy that status this year as well. There’s been a slow but steady transition toward simpler, minimalistic, and sustainable landscaping designs over the last couple of decades and, as the trend continues, so will low maintenance landscaping lawns. Here are some landscaping design ideas to get you started:
- Before you start, be sure to plan your landscaping design ideas well. You’ll want to take note of existing features, such as pools, spas, hot tubs, decks, stairs, porches, driveways, decks, and more. Take into account existing textures, such as brick, gravel, sand, asphalt, pavers, or tiles. You’ll also need to think about your own personal landscaping ideas, as there is no right or wrong when it comes to landscaping design ideas. A great place to find more ideas is “The Home Room,” a newsletter published by the Associated Landscape Designers of America.
- When it comes to landscaping design ideas, you have a wide range of options. For example, you can integrate irrigation systems into your landscape design. Irrigation systems can include pumps and filters that can be installed under the ground, or you can line canals or other surfaces with gravel to carry the water between plants and into the soil below. Plants, soil, and grass all benefit from proper irrigation.
- Another aspect to keep in mind is that landscaping design ideas for low-maintenance outdoor spaces should include materials that are as resistant to wear and tear as possible. This includes materials that are not porous, but rather nonporous, such as natural stone. In addition, use materials that require minimal maintenance, such as low-level mulch with a durable coating or decorative grass mats.
If you are working with a limited amount of outdoor space, landscaping design ideas for low-maintenance spaces are key. This does not mean that you have to create your outdoor space like a museum at Main Street. On the contrary, you can create low-maintenance spaces that still provide plenty of space to enjoy your favourite activities, without the worry of having to mow the lawn or shovel the snow. Low maintenance areas often make more sense than high maintenance ones, since you still get to enjoy your outdoor space after the work has been done. The key, however, is to choose a landscaping design idea that works well with your budget.
One way to achieve a landscaping with low maintenance is to create an outdoor living space or lounge. In a landscaping design idea for a lounge, focus on using flexible seating that allows you to change the size of your group as needed. Look for ideas that allow you to gather and work with like-minded individuals without having to worry about the size of your group. For a family, look for ideas that feature couches, chairs, tables, a television set, and so on. For singles, aim for small tables and chairs so that you can socialize without the need to worry about space.
When landscaping a small area, your landscaping design ideas for low maintenance can include things as simple as planting trees and flowers. For larger spaces, consider landscaping options that incorporate walkways, decks, or patios. Walkways allow you to easily move around your landscaping area. If your yard is long, consider building a deck. It will give you the opportunity to sit outside on your deck while watching the kids play in the water or doing other activities.
Another way to achieve landscaping with low maintenance involves incorporating landscaping items into your landscape design that require minimal upkeep. For example, plants that are low maintenance and easy to keep around the house can be an excellent choice. However, if you don’t have any of these plants around your house, look for landscaping ideas that emphasize plants that require more maintenance such as ferns, shrubs, and grass. You may also want to consider incorporating certain types of lighting into your landscaping design ideas. This will provide you with outdoor lighting that doesn’t require much attention when it’s needed and it will help to improve the appearance of your landscaping area.