Category: Uncategorized

  • What a Spring Landscape Cleanup Really Includes (and When It Makes Sense to Start)

    What a Spring Landscape Cleanup Really Includes (and When It Makes Sense to Start)

    Early spring always brings a mix of excitement and uncertainty. The snow starts to melt, days feel longer, and it’s tempting to get outside and start clearing everything away as soon as possible.

    But when it comes to early spring cleanup, timing matters — and not everything should be done all at once.

    Each March, I have conversations with clients who are wondering what to tackle early, what to wait on, and how the weather plays into it all. This post is meant to help clarify what early spring cleanup actually includes, and when it’s best to begin.

    Why Early Spring Cleanup Isn’t One Single Task

    Spring cleanup isn’t a single event — it’s a process that unfolds as conditions allow.

    In our climate, March can bring frozen ground one week and muddy soil the next. That means landscape work needs to be flexible and thoughtful to avoid damaging plants or soil.

    Early spring cleanup focuses on preparation, not perfection.

    What Early Spring Cleanup Typically Includes

    There are several tasks that can often be done in early spring, depending on weather and site conditions.

    Shrub and Small Tree Pruning

    Late winter into early spring is often an ideal time to prune many shrubs and small trees, as long as temperatures are above freezing and plants haven’t started to leaf out.

    Pruning during this window:

    • Improves plant structure
    • Encourages healthy growth
    • Removes winter-damaged branches

    This work is best done carefully and intentionally, rather than rushed.

    Selective Debris Removal

    Early spring cleanup usually involves removing:

    • Fallen branches
    • Large debris
    • Excess leaf buildup in key areas

    At this stage, cleanup is more about clearing what needs to be cleared — not stripping beds bare.

    Leaving some organic material in place can actually help protect soil and emerging plants.

    Assessing Winter Damage

    March is also the time to evaluate:

    • Snow and ice damage
    • Broken limbs
    • Areas of compaction or drainage issues

    This assessment helps guide what work should happen later in the spring and what might be better addressed over the growing season.

    What Often Should Wait Until Later

    Just as important as knowing what to do early is knowing what to hold off on.

    Perennial Cutbacks

    While it can be tempting to cut everything down right away, many perennials benefit from waiting until temperatures are consistently warmer.

    Leaving stems in place a little longer:

    • Protects new growth
    • Provides habitat for beneficial insects
    • Reduces stress on plants

    Heavy Raking or Bed Disturbance

    Working soil too early — especially when it’s wet — can cause compaction and long-term damage.

    In many cases, it’s better to wait until the ground has dried slightly and stabilized.

    Full-Scale Cleanup

    Early spring is about starting, not finishing.

    A more thorough cleanup often makes sense later in spring, once growth patterns are clearer and conditions are more predictable.

    How I Decide When to Begin Cleanup Work Each Year

    Each season is different, but before starting early spring cleanup, I consider:

    • Are temperatures consistently above freezing?
    • Is the ground firm enough to work without compaction?
    • Have plants begun active growth yet?
    • Will this work benefit the plants now—or later?

    If the conditions aren’t right, waiting is often the best choice.

    A Note for Homeowners and Gardeners

    If you’re unsure whether it’s time to start cleanup in your landscape, that’s completely normal.

    Early spring can feel unpredictable, and it’s better to move slowly than to undo progress later. Starting with pruning and light cleanup — and letting the rest unfold naturally — often leads to healthier landscapes overall.

    Final Thoughts

    Early spring cleanup is less about checking everything off a list and more about setting the stage for the growing season ahead.

    By working with the weather and the plants — rather than against them — landscapes are better prepared to thrive once spring fully arrives.

    If you’re unsure about timing or want help planning early spring work, thoughtful planning now can make the rest of the season smoother and more enjoyable.

  • Starting Flowers from Seed: What’s Worth It (and What’s Not)

    Starting Flowers from Seed: What’s Worth It (and What’s Not)

    February is when seed catalogs pile up, trays come out of storage, and optimism runs high. It’s also when many gardeners ask the same question:

    Is it actually worth starting flowers from seed — or should I just buy plants later?

    The honest answer is: it depends.

    After years of starting flowers from seed for both landscapes and cutting gardens, I’ve learned that some plants are absolutely worth the time and effort — and others are better left to nature, direct sowing, or buying as starts.

    Here’s how I think about it.

    Why I Start Flowers from Seed at All

    Starting flowers from seed isn’t about saving money or rushing spring. For me, it’s about:

    • Growing varieties that aren’t available as starts
    • Controlling bloom timing
    • Producing healthier, more resilient plants
    • Creating a wider range of colors, forms, and textures

    That said, not every flower earns a spot under grow lights in February.

    Starting seeds

    Flowers That Are Worth Starting from Seed

    These are the plants I consistently find worth the effort.

    1. Slow-growing or long-season flowers

    Some flowers need a long head start to bloom well in our climate. Starting them indoors allows them to mature on schedule instead of running out of time.

    Examples:

    • Lisianthus
    • Bells of Ireland
    • Certain perennials

    2. Flowers you want in specific colors or varieties

    Seed starting opens the door to varieties you won’t find at garden centers — softer tones, unusual shapes, or specialty cuts.

    This is especially important for:

    • Cutting gardens
    • Bouquet planning
    • Color-themed plantings

    When I’m planning flowers for the cart, seed starting gives me flexibility and consistency.

    3. Perennials grown for the long term

    Starting perennials from seed requires patience, but it pays off.

    While not all will bloom the first year, many establish stronger root systems early and perform better in the long term. Some — like yarrow — may even surprise you with first-season blooms.

    Flowers That Aren’t Always Worth Starting Indoors

    This is where people often overdo it.

    1. Fast-growing, direct-sow flowers

    For some flowers, starting them indoors provides little benefit because they grow so fast. This is unless, as in my situation, you need them ready by a specific date.

    Examples:

    • Cosmos
    • Zinnias
    • Sunflowers

    These thrive when sown directly outdoors once conditions are right.

    2. Plants that dislike transplanting

    Certain flowers resent being disturbed and perform better when planted exactly where they’ll grow.

    If a plant struggles after transplanting, indoor seed starting can actually set it back.

    3. Flowers that need special germination conditions

    Some seeds require very specific temperature or light conditions that can be tricky indoors — especially for beginners.

    I often recommend leaving these for later or gaining experience with easier plants first.

    Starting seeds

    How I Decide What to Start Each Year

    Before I sow anything, I ask myself a few questions:

    • Does this plant need a long growing season?
    • Will starting it indoors improve bloom quality or timing?
    • Is it difficult to find as a healthy start locally?
    • Does it transplant well?

    If the answer is no to most of these, it probably doesn’t belong under lights in February.


    A Note for New Seed Starters

    If you’re just getting started with seed starting, you don’t need to do everything at once.

    Start with:

    • A few reliable varieties
    • Clean trays and fresh seed-starting mix
    • Patience (and labels — always labels)

    I’ve shared a detailed, step-by-step look at how I physically start seeds — from trays and soil to heat mats and labeling — in a separate post if you’d like a closer look at the process:

    https://www.shawnlvieth.com/stepstoseedstarting/

    Final Thoughts

    Seed starting is part science, part intuition, and part experience. It’s not about doing more — it’s about doing what makes sense for the plants, the season, and your goals.

    Whether you’re growing for beauty, bouquets, or curiosity, choosing what’s truly worth starting from seed makes the whole process more enjoyable — and far more successful.

    Spring is closer than it looks.


    If you enjoy behind-the-scenes looks at how I plan and grow flowers for the season, you can sign up for my weekly emails here: http://eepurl.com/iFYfi6

  • Fall Planting for Spring Blooms

    Fall Planting for Spring Blooms

    Do you know what time it is? It’s time to plan for spring! Many people don’t realize that to get beautiful spring blooms you need to plant bulbs in the fall.There are so many great bulbs to choose from tulips, narcissus, crocus, and more. If you haven’t done so yet, get that order in or get to your favorite garden center to purchase your favorite spring bulbs. 

    Spring blooming bulbs are planted in Wisconsin between September and November. The best planting time is after a frost, but before the ground freezes. Depending on the type of bulb or corm, a cold period below 45 degrees for 10-17 weeks is needed for proper blooming. Crocus need a shorter chilling period while tulips are on the longer end.

    Crocus

    Crocus corms are deer and rodent resistant. They come in a variety of colors including white, yellow, purple, orange, multicolored, and more. Due to their short height, they can be used to naturalize in lawns.  Their early bloom is a welcome sight after a long winter.

    Daffodils, Narcissus 

    Are you confused by daffodils and narcissus? Narcissus is a botanical name while daffodil is usually used as the common name for Narcissus. They don’t only come in yellow and white these days. They come in yellow, white, pink, orange, pink, and red. The bloom types also come in trumpet, large cupped, small cupped, double and more. They multiply over time and most are fragrant. Heights range from a few inches to 30+ inches depending on the variety.

    Tulips

    Wild tulip types multiply and spread over time. Many other types of tulips do not spread or multiply reliably however. Tulip bulbs and sprouts are loved by deer and other critters as a food source. They are often dug up and eaten or relocated by squirrels. However, the few cons of tulips are surpassed by their beautiful colors and varieties. They are available in just about any color except true blue.

    Allium

    Allium bulbs are in the onion family so they are seldom bothered by deer, squirrels, or rodents. They also range in size from 8 inches to 50+ inches. They fill the bloom gap between other spring blooming bulbs and early summer perennials. They come in shades of purple, pink, white, yellow, and red.

    Hyacinth

    Hyacinth bloom at about the same time as daffodils. For some people, the bulbs cause a skin irritation so wearing gloves when planting is recommended. To get a reliable bloom year after year, hyacinth often need to be replanted. The extra effort is worth it for the fragrance alone. Hyacinth have an intense, sweet fragrance. 

    These are just a few of my favorite spring blooming bulbs. Try Erythronium, Muscari, Fritillaria, Galanthus, Cyclamen, or Eranthis hyemalis for even more variety and an extended spring bloom. 

  • Our Hummingbird Friends

    Our Hummingbird Friends

    It is nearing the time to say goodbye to our Ruby-Throated Hummingbird friends for the season.

    They’re building up their energy reserves, so keeping your feeders full and your flowers blooming will provide much needed sustenance. As the days grow shorter, their urgency to migrate increases, making these last few weeks of their presence a special time to observe these tiny, resilient birds.

    Placing hummingbird feeders out can help with sustenance for migrating birds. Hang feeders in partially shaded areas to reduce spoilage. Feeders should be cleaned every couple of days during hot weather and at least weekly in cooler weather. Effective cleaning can be accomplished by using hot soapy water for cleaning and rinsing thoroughly. After thoroughly cleaning, refill the feeder with fresh nectar. 

    Practice responsible birding by creating homemade nectar and avoiding red dye. Homemade nectar is easy to make: simply mix four parts water with one part granulated sugar, boiling the mixture briefly to dissolve the sugar and then letting it cool completely before filling feeders.

    Fall is the perfect time to plant some natural nectar producers. Hummingbirds are attracted to red or orange tubular flowers, but will feed from a variety of blooms in assorted colors. Penstemon barbatus (Beardtongue), Salvia coccinea (annual Salvia), and Campsis radicans (Trumpet Vine), fit the bill and are some of hummingbirds favorite flowers to visit. Some Wisconsin native hummingbird favorites are Aquilega canadensis (Columbine), Agastache foeniculum (Anise Hyssop), Lobelia cardinalis (Red Cardinal Flower), and Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot).

    As the season wraps up, fill your hummingbird feeders one last time. Plant some hardy perennials for natural hummingbird food for next season. Plan to add some of hummingbird’s favorite annuals to your spring annual lineup. Get your feeders back out and ready by late April to welcome back our fine feathered friends.

  • Basics of Landscape Design Part 4: Selecting Landscape Plants and Materials

    Basics of Landscape Design Part 4: Selecting Landscape Plants and Materials

    Here is what you have been waiting for. It is time to choose the plants. Not so fast! Make sure to take the following considerations to heart before making your selections. First, you must consider your hardiness zone. The hardiness zone is the lowest winter temperature the plant is able to tolerate. Soil type should also be considered. Is the soil sandy, clay, or loamy. Different plants thrive in different soil conditions. The exposure of the planting area is also important. Does the area have a sunny southern exposure or is the planting area located on a northern slope? What other factors are present? Are there prevailing winds, a low spot that collects water, or a black walnut tree from the neighbor hanging into your yard? Exposure to salt spray from the road, sidewalk, or driveway can cause damage to some plants as well. 

    Once you narrow your choices down to plants that can tolerate the planting location, you will need to consider the attributes of the plant. Plants can vary greatly in size, shape, texture, and color. They can be pyramidal, rounded, horizontal, weeping, or upright. Leaves and needles can be fine-textured, coarse, large, medium, or small. Shades of green can be the brightest chartreuse to the darkest forest green. Maybe they aren’t even green at all, but shades of blue, burgundy, or with variegation in the leaves. The leaf color may also change with the seasons. Bark,stem color, fruit, and seeds heads may add  and texture and add interest. 

    Choices are further broken down into trees, shrubs, perennial, annuals, vines, and groundcovers. There is some overlap between the categories. Trees should enhance the appearance of a home and be strategically chosen and placed to add shade or and/or wind protection. Consider placement of both deciduous and evergreen trees carefully to achieve the desired appearance as well as function. Avoid placing trees too close to the home’s foundation or the city sidewalk to avoid foundation or sidewalk damage. Consider the mature height and width of the tree before planting, since mature trees are quite costly and difficult if not impossible to move. Smaller trees can be placed as accents and focal points. 

    Layering of shrubs, grasses, and perennials can soften the foundation and bring color and texture to the landscape. They can also screen areas and create barriers. Be sure to allow for the mature growth of the plant. The correct plant in the correct location minimizes maintenance. For instance, if you want a plant to stay below the window sill and the sill is 4 ft off the ground, do not plant a shrub that gets larger than 4 ft tall in the location. Plants will always want to grow to their full size. Keep in mind that keeping a plant smaller than the mature size will require additional maintenance. Annuals can be added in pots or in the ground to add color and seasonal interest or to fill open areas while perennials and shrubs mature. 

  • Basics of Landscape Design Part 3: Landscape Design Principles

    Basics of Landscape Design Part 3: Landscape Design Principles

    Landscape design includes elements and principles of importance. There are certain landscape design principles that are present in successful landscape designs. While there are many opinions on the elements and principles that should be used in a successful design, I will touch on the importance of unity, balance, emphasis, and scale. 

    Unity is creating a unified feel. This is achieved when there is a replicating factor in the design. Unity can be shown in design pattern, texture, or color. The goal is to achieve a cohesive feel in the design.

    The second equally important design principle is balance. Balance can be shown symmetrically or asymmetrically. Achieving balance occurs when the design isn’t weighted more heavily on one side than the other or when one element doesn’t dominate the landscape. 

    Emphasis can be created through focal points or accent areas. This is achieved by drawing attention to specific elements of the design. The goal is to guide the participant’s gaze through the landscape.

    Finally, the Scale should be considered. The overall height and size of a home in relation to the size of the plants should be prioritized. A large building with tiny shrubs would not match the scale just as a large shrub in front of a small home with low windows would not be in scale. Another way to look at it is to have appropriate proportions and/or size relationships.

    A lot can be divided into different spaces. These spaces can act much like outdoor “rooms”. 

    Each room can have a separate purpose such as lawn and games, public area, garden area, etcetera. Lines are used to separate the different spaces. Curved lines often reflect a natural and more casual design. Straight lines are common for hardscapes including patios, steps, and decks, but they can also be used to separate bed lines from lawn areas to create a more formal design. 

    The types of plants and hardscape materials also play a role in determining the overall formal or informal feel of the area. Next time, I will discuss how selecting plants and other materials in the design can bring a desired feeling to the landscape.

    Previous : Basics of Landscape Design Part 1: Assessing your Site available @ https://www.shawnlvieth.com/basics-of-landscape-design

    Previous : Basics of Landscape Design Part 2: Evaluate your Needs available @ https://www.shawnlvieth.com/basics-of-landscape-design-part-2/

    Next : Basics of Landscape Design Part 4: Selecting Landscape Plants and Materials

  • Basics of Landscape Design Part 2: Evaluate your Needs

    Basics of Landscape Design Part 2: Evaluate your Needs

    The second step in developing a landscape design is to consider your needs. How will the area be used? Who will be using it? Do you want an area for a veggie or flower garden? How about a play area? An area for Fido? Are you looking to incorporate an outdoor kitchen, swimming pool, she shed or greenhouse? These are just some of the questions needing answers to incorporate key wants and needs into the landscape design.

    Would you like to attract birds and other wildlife to your yard? For many people, myself included, having an appealing landscape isn’t just so you can look at it. It is also enjoyable to watch wildlife enjoying it. If that is a goal, specific plant selection will be important. Your landscape design will likely include different types of trees and shrubs including those that offer a food source and shelter for birds, insects, and other wildlife.

    Another important consideration is your budget. Completing a master plan for the entire property at the beginning of planning will help you avoid expensive adjustments later. Maybe that swimming pool is on the 5 year wishlist, but planting trees is on the immediate horizon. You want to make sure the future pool area, and access for installation, is kept clear. Having a master plan would ensure all short term and long term plans are followed in a logical sequence. 

    While considering all your needs, develop a list of all your space requirements. The list should include all the activities you want to be able to use the space for. Consideration should be given regarding whether each area of the property will be a public or private space. Indoor rooms will also play an important role in determining the outdoor space. For instance, it will likely be more convenient to have the outdoor kitchen near a home entrance and the indoor kitchen. 

    Public areas will be seen by passersby so thoughtfulness on how it will affect the neighborhood aesthetic may be a consideration. The front yard, main entrance to the home, driveway, and sidewalks are some of the areas generally considered public areas. Consider how people will move from the sidewalk and/or driveway to the home’s entrance. Snow removal will also be something to consider in Wisconsin or other northern climates. 

    There are areas you will likely wish to keep private from the public street view and neighbors. Consider views into the yard such as from neighbor’s windows, streets, and sidewalks. Screening plants or structures could be useful to create privacy and minimize unwanted views both looking onto and looking out from the property. Areas to store garbage cans, wood, and service areas should be accessible, but kept out of view.  

    After all the needed information is gathered, add a layer of tracing paper over your initial base map. Sketch out the use areas such as garden, screening, play area, wood storage etc. You can make several general sketches on separate tracing paper until you come up with something that fits your needs. Keep it basic, just use circles, ovals, squares, and basic shapes to mark out the general areas you will utilize for each need. 

    Basics of Landscape Design Part 1: Assessing your Site available @ https://www.shawnlvieth.com/basics-of-landscape-design

    Next : Basics of Landscape Design Part 3: Landscape Design Principles

  • Basics of Landscape Design 

    Basics of Landscape Design 

    Part 1: Assessing your site 

    Start out by gathering some supplies:

    • Graph paper
    • Table, desk, or other flat work area
    • Pencil(s)
    • Eraser
    • Ruler or scale marked in 8th or tenths of an inch
    • Transparent / tracing paper
    • Circle template, compass, triangle, T-square

    After you have gathered your supplies, draw a base map of the area.

     If you have a new home, you will likely already have a plot plan that shows how your house sits on the property in relation to the property lines. If you do not have a plot plan, you will need to use a measuring tape to determine the:

    • Locations of doors and windows
    • Height from the ground to the base of windows
    • Locations of AC unit, window wells, gas meters, well, water spigot, and any other main landmarks
    • Overhang dimensions
    • Outside house dimensions

    Draw the property/lot lines on the graph paper. Typically, ⅛ inch scale (1 inch = 8 ft) is the most common scale for landscape drawings. Whatever scale you choose, keep it consistent. Then draw the location of your house in relation to the lot lines. 

    If you are working on a residential project for the full lot, continue adding all the other landmarks for the lot including:

    • Driveways and sidewalks
    • Plantings that will be retained including existing trees and shrubs
    • Utilities
    • Downspout locations
    • Any other buildings, sheds etc.
    • Any other object that will need to be accounted for such as concrete pads, pools, septic tanks, drain field etc.

    Next, Analyze your lot 

    Consider:

    • Existing vegetation
      • Are there existing plants including trees and shrubs that will be kept? Do they cast shadows on certain areas of the landscape?
    • Climate
      • Where is the origin of prevailing wind directions throughout the year?
      • What are the last spring and first fall frost dates? 
      • What is the average precipitation?
    • Topography
      • Is the lot flat, sloped etc?
      • How is the drainage? Are there areas that hold water?  Where do downspouts exit? 
      • What is the soil like? Clay, loam, sandy?

    Put a piece of tracing paper over your graph paper/base map. Draw arrows on the tracing paper to indicate the drainage patterns, elevation changes, prevailing winds, both good and bad views, and anything else of importance. 

    Take photos of the property. Include photos of all views of the house and views looking out from the house to the landscape. If possible, take pictures at different times of the day and year to indicate different shadows cast. Make sure to look at favorable or unfavorable views beyond the lot. These may be areas that need screening or that can be accentuated. 

    Next : Basics of Landscape Design Part 2: Evaluate your needs 

  • Easy Flocked Pinecone Wreath

    Easy Flocked Pinecone Wreath

    All you need for this easy wreath craft is …

    • Cardboard or other working surface that can handle overspray
    • Approximately 20 Eastern White Pine Cones (or other cones of your choice to cover entire frame)
    • 1 wire wreath frame (I used a 14 inch wire wreath frame)
    • A hot glue gun
    • Hot glue gun sticks (I used 5 sticks)
    • Ribbon for bow and hanging if desired 
    • Wreath door hanger if hanging on a door
    • Snow spray (I used Santa Snow Spray), flocking spray, gold, white, or silver spray paint, 

    Directions…

    Set up cardboard, newspaper, or other type of working surface that won’t be damaged by excess hot glue, spray paint, or flocking spray.

    Place wire wreath ring flat side down

    Plug in your glue gun if you haven’t done so

    Dry fit the pine cones along the wreath until you are happy with the design

    Glue the pine cones one at a time to the frame by lifting the cone off the frame and applying glue to any surface of the cone that will come in contact with the wire frame. Gently push and hold each cone, as you apply it to the frame, until the glue begins to cool and harden to the frame.

    When all the cones have been applied to the frame, list the frame vertically. If any cones are not firmly attached to the frame, add more glue and push until set.

    Note: you may need to flip the wreath onto the other side so you can apply glue from the underside of the frame for firm adhesion.

    Let the glue dry in place for at least 15 minutes.

    Thoroughly spray the wreath with the snow spray or spray paint until full coverage is achieved. This may require you to move around the wreath so any bare spots can be observed. Allow to dry thoroughly. Drying time is dependent on the materials used and the air temperature. If doing this project outside, the air temperature should be a minimum of 60 degrees to ensure correct application and complete drying. If time allows, leave to set overnight.

    Lift the wreath vertically and spot spray any areas missed. You may wish to flip the wreath over and apply the snow spray or spray paint to the back side for full coverage. This is typically not necessary if the wreath will be used for decoration on a solid door, but may be recommended if it will be hung on a glass door or other application. 

    When the wreath is coated as desired and completely dry, apply the hanger/ribbon and hang.

    Enjoy!!!

    Note: make sure to store this wreath in the appropriate box or hang to store. It is fragile.

  • The Fundamentals of Landscape Design: How to Beautify Your Outdoor Space

    The Fundamentals of Landscape Design: How to Beautify Your Outdoor Space

    We all know that the beauty of a home is not confined to its interior. At Shawn L. Vieth LLC, I am passionate about bringing life and beauty to the outdoor spaces around your home. As the weather warms in Jefferson County and surrounding areas, it’s time to shift your attention to the outside and give your space the love it deserves. The following landscape design basics will help you transform your outdoor space into an area of beauty, relaxation, and enjoyment.

    1. Understanding Your Outdoor Space

    Before you jump into choosing landscape layouts and plants right away, it’s crucial to understand the specifics of your outdoor space. Factors such as climate, soil type, and sun exposure are just a few of the elements that will influence your design decisions. Observe the direction of sunlight, wind patterns, and natural water runoff paths. Take note of existing plants and their health as this can also help you understand the characteristics of your soil.

    One thing you should consider in particular is the USDA Hardiness Zone mapping for where you reside. For example, Jefferson County, WI is characterized by Hardiness Zone 5a. This zone covers regions where the average lowest temperature in winter falls between -20 to -15 degrees Fahrenheit. What this means is that, when selecting plants for outdoor gardens or landscapes in Jefferson County, it would be best to choose those that can tolerate or thrive in these winter temperature conditions. Plants categorized as hardy to Zone 5a or below will be most likely to survive the winter season. Surrounding counties such as Dane and Dodge Counties also fall under Hardiness Zone 5a while Waukesha County falls under both 5a and 5b depending on locality. 

    2. Identify the Purpose of Your Landscape

    Every great design starts with a purpose. What is your vision for the outdoor space? Is it a peaceful retreat for reading? A lively space for your kids and pets to play? An outdoor entertainment area? Your design decisions should cater to the function you’ve identified. For instance, if you want a peaceful retreat, consider adding a water feature or a comfortable seating area nestled among lush greenery.

    3. Create a Balance of Hard and Soft Landscaping

    In landscape design, balance is key. “Hard” landscaping (also known as hardscaping) refers to manmade features like pathways, decks, patios, and pergolas. “Soft” landscaping (also known as softscaping) includes natural elements like plants, trees, and flower beds. A well-designed landscape harmoniously combines both. Use hard landscaping to create structure and define spaces, while soft landscaping brings in color, texture, and life.

    4. Choose a Style That Matches Your Home

    The style of your landscape should be an extension of your home. If your home has a modern minimalist design, opt for clean lines and understated elegance in your landscape. A traditional or rustic home, on the other hand, may benefit from an English garden style or a woodland landscape. Consistency in style ensures a seamless transition from the inside of your home to the outside.

    5. Consider Sustainability

    Sustainability should be a guiding principle in modern landscape design. Choose native plants that thrive in your local climate and soil conditions. They require less maintenance and are more resistant to pests. For example, plants like Prairie Smoke and Wild Columbine, which are hardy and thrive in Jefferson and surrounding counties, can create a landscape that’s both beautiful and ecologically friendly. Incorporating rainwater harvesting or drip irrigation can also save water and money in the long run.

    6. Seek Professional Guidance

    Finally, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. At Shawn L. Vieth LLC, I specialize in bringing your vision to life while considering the unique characteristics of your outdoor space. I can provide expert guidance, design ideas, and ensure that the landscape design process is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.Creating a beautiful outdoor space is an investment in your quality of life. While the basics of landscape design can guide you, the most important aspect is that the final design resonates with you and brings you joy. After all, your landscape should be a reflection of your lifestyle and personality. This summer, take the opportunity to transform your outdoor area into a captivating extension of your home. Request your quote today!