It is not hard to design and create the garden, lawn or yard that you want. You just need to learn some of the basics of landscaping. This guide is filled with advice that can help you do that, in order to create the yard that you desire to have.

Before beginning your project, be sure to learn the difference between plants–annuals and perennials, hardiness zones, bulbs and seeds. You need to take your local climate into consideration when improving your yard. It is vital you take this into consideration so you are sure to see the best results.

TIP! Make a sketch of your landscaping project ideas before you start digging. A sketch can help you to visualize the results and have a better idea of the materials you will need to complete the project.

If your landscaping plans include an outdoor kitchen, it pays to use granite as your primary material. Granite is a low maintenance material so while it might cost you more during the initial install, it will be worth the money later on since you won’t be faced with constant bills for replacements and repairs.

Prior to starting a landscaping project, get the soil tested. Testing the soil will determine if anything should be eliminated or added to the soil to make it more healthy. This will improve the quality of the plants in your yard or garden.

Are you planning on selling your house in the near future? Compared with other home improvement projects, landscaping is an investment that can generate as much as 100 to 200 percent returns. By creating a new outdoor living area in your backyard, you will add curb appeal to your home.

TIP! When you landscape, it is wise to utilize native plants. Make sure the flowers, shrubs or trees you use are indigenous to the area.

Landscaping is so much more than just planting different trees and grasses. Add a little texture and fill out your design with accent pieces or structures in wood, iron, or even cement. Decks, archways and birdbaths are great structures to enhance any yard. You can purchase less expensive or more expensive versions of these elements, depending on your budget.

If you time your landscape purchases properly, you can spend less cash. For instance, winter is the best time to purchase lumber, while shrubs, mulch, and tress should be bought later on in the season. When a new species of plant is introduced, you can save money by waiting a few years before buying your specimen.

Take the time to talk with fellow gardeners or professions before you embark on a landscaping project. A short discussion about your ideas and approach with a pro can widen your perspective and uncover any issues in your design that need rethinking. Especially if you lack knowledge in the landscaping field, this is a step you should consider.

TIP! Test your soil before beginning your landscaping project. Getting your soil examined is a good way to decide whether or not it needs adjustments before you start introducing new plants.

Save yourself some money by shopping online, and browse a much larger selection. There are lots of quality websites that offer popular products at very reasonable prices. It is always a good idea to read reviews that are written by other customers. This will provide you with valuable information, such as whether people received good products and if they were properly protected. The Internet also makes it easy to compare prices.

Take into consideration your existing structures when planning and implementing your landscaping project. Go over where your sprinkler pipes, air conditioners and various other things around your home are because you don’t want your landscaping to interfere with them. Call the city or county before you dig to make sure you do not damage any underground lines.

If you are looking for more color in your garden, try wildflowers if you’re on a budget. Wildflower seeds are widely available and can be scattered liberally in large or difficult-to-plant areas. As a result, you’ll have a myriad of beautiful flowers of a variety of types. Wildflowers are gorgeous in your yard and they can also help to create beautiful bouquets for your dining room table!

TIP! Create a multi-seasonal garden to get a lot from your landscaping efforts. Choose an array of plants that burst with blooms at different times of the year, making sure they are appropriate for your zone.

Foliage plants, and evergreens will give an impression of continuity to your project. Quite a few different plants only blossom for a little while, leaving your yard dull looking at certain times. Add these types of plants between beds to add a green accent to the landscape.

The tips that were in this article will allow you to finally create the garden that you’ve always wanted. Put the information you have learned into action, and you will soon have a yard to be proud of.