Having a backyard to relax in, entertain guests, and play with the kids is a dream for many homeowners. Achieving that perfect look requires a bit of thought and time to get it right.
Your landscaping doesn’t just affect how you use your yard or curb appeal; it also impacts the environment!
Water
When you include a water feature in your landscaping, you bring life to the space. Your garden becomes a place where birds, bees, and other insects can thrive. These small wildlife touches make the landscape a more comfortable environment for you and your family.
Water is also a natural air coolant, and evaporation releases negative ions into the atmosphere, which helps clean pollutants from your yard. As a bonus, outdoor water features can be an excellent choice for Nebraska homeowners looking to reduce their energy bills!
Hardscape elements like pathways, patios, and retaining walls help define the landscape. They should be chosen based on their ability to complement the natural surroundings and architectural style of your home. Incorporating similar building materials for these elements throughout your yard cultivates unity and ensures consistency.
Plants that are well-suited to your climate and soil conditions are better equipped to thrive. They require less water and are generally healthier and more resistant to pests and disease. Water-wise plants and xeriscapes offer long-term savings on watering needs and irrigation costs.
Light
A well-planned lighting scheme can highlight landscape features and pathways, extending the use of your outdoor space into the night. This also improves safety and security by creating a safer environment for those using your yard.
Form helps convey a landscape aesthetic, from the fluidity of curved plants and walkways to the crispness of straight lines. Do you want your yard to feel cozy and welcoming, or do you prefer a more formal, structured look?
Color is the most noticeable aspect of a landscape, changing with the seasons as flowers bloom and foliage grows. Choosing plants that offer color throughout the year is essential to ensure your landscape remains vibrant all year long. Hardscape features also offer color, from the rich blue of a pool to the natural khaki of a stepping stone.
Air
Landscaping provides many environmental benefits, ranging from improved air quality to water conservation. Proper landscaping techniques, such as incorporating native plants and permeable pavements, can reduce runoff and soil erosion, as well as help recharge groundwater supplies and minimize flood risk.
Grass and trees improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, releasing oxygen, and trapping dust and smoke particles. Additionally, a healthy lawn and landscape can lower noise pollution by absorbing sound waves.
A beautifully landscaped property also increases property value and attracts buyers. Real estate agents report that prospective buyers are often willing to pay more for a home with a front yard and backyard that have been well-maintained through professional landscaping.
Whether you need to keep your commercial space beautiful or want to add curb appeal to a residential yard, High Tech Landscapes can provide the perfect solution. We have the expertise to design and install gardens, walkways, and retaining walls. Our team can also build fences and gates, as well as create a safe outdoor space for kids and pets.
Privacy
Plants provide privacy in the landscape for you, your family, and your pets. They also have practical, everyday purposes, such as enhancing property value, reducing noise pollution, filtering water, returning organic matter to the soil, and attracting wildlife. When choosing plants, consider how you use your space and what type of aesthetic you want for your yard. For example, rounded plants and walkways convey a casual feel, while straight lines and more formal structures offer a sense of order. You can create either physical or implied barriers for privacy through the use of fences, walls, and hedges. Landscaping also serves psychological comfort by creating a private space for entertaining or relaxation.
Curb Appeal
A well-kept front yard speaks volumes about a homeowner’s pride of ownership. Fortunately, boosting curb appeal doesn’t require an expensive overhaul. Several affordable landscaping improvements make a significant impact on a property’s appearance and value.
Flowering Plants: An annual rotation of color throughout the spring and summer engages visitors. Native plants like black-eyed Susans, tulips, and marigolds keep the color coming and stay vibrant longer than imported flowers.
Mulching: Maintains soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and creates a unified look across garden beds. Add a few decorative elements like a prefab trellis, a front door wreath, or a custom mailbox to add personality and flair.
Walkway Enhancements: Brick, paver, and stone pathways keep walkways clear while adding character and charm.
Landscape Lighting: Strategically placed lights not only illuminate paths after dark but also highlight eye-catching features and create the ultimate ambiance. Proper Pruning: Removing dead or dying branches keeps trees and shrubs healthy and attractive. This task can help protect commercial properties from falling branches in storms and high winds. Additionally, it promotes new growth and removes unsightly debris.