As Thomas Jefferson planned his various gardens, he created
his design on paper first. This concept allowed him to plan where he would
plant what tree, bulb, and seed, in order to create a harmonious and relaxing
effect. Gardening to Jefferson was a way to release his stress, thereby
allowing him to endure the responsibilities placed upon him throughout his
life. Jefferson also noted each decision in a journal to be compared year after
year. In modern days, we can create the same type of journal, but with
photographs to allow us to see the progress of our gardens, along with notes
telling us how many we planted, what worked, what didn't work, and how much was
reaped as a result of our labors.
When planning your landscape design think as Jefferson did,
harmonious and relaxing affect. Is there an area where you want to eventually
relax with a cold glass of Ice tea and a good book? Are you into entertaining
at night? Will you need ambiance lighting, or festive lighting? Will your
lighting need electrical outlets for electrical cords for said lighting? Should
the line be placed in PVC pipes sealed at both ends to ensure no electrical
fire sets your home aflame? Are you going to use natural stone, bricks, rocks
to create your paths or patio structure? What is the cost for doing all that?
Or can you modify your design to make it more natural, maybe using solar
lighting instead? Will you incorporate a fish pond, waterfall, or maybe stone
garden to help create that relaxing mood? Each item you plan to have in your
landscape requires work, lifting, and serious strategic planning that must be
done in phases. Do you have the back muscles to do it yourself, or will you
need to hire someone? Hiring someone costs money, so consider scaling it down
until you can afford to hire that pro to do what you could have done
yourself. Remember to think about the
maintenance of the area. Using black landscaping mesh will need to be installed
before you place that mulch or stone in your garden to prevent weeds from
growing. Can you easily edge the area by hand or by using a weed-whacker? I'm
not trying to discourage you from creating your special space, instead I want
you to think about every possible scenario before you waste one penny on a
landscaping project.
Color is important to your area, so you must consider what
plants will you use in your area.
Picking the right plants is essential to making your area perfect.
Perfect might be the wrong word to use, but in your mind they would be perfect,
so it's appropriate. You must consider growing height, color, texture, growing
season, etc. For example, many years ago
I had a flat patio with a seasonal four-poled awning that covered it. Inside
the area, there was the standard table and chairs, but I also included four
large planter pots with palm trees to help create an oasis atmosphere. At the
base of the palm tree were colorful flowers, and short stem variegated ivy
vines. The atmosphere was both harmonious and relaxing. Unfortunately, one storm came upon the area
with high winds, torrential rains and the squall that accompanied the storm
destroyed the area. Therefore, think in
terms of possible storms when you create your area to be sure it will withstand
such a storm. Now you can't grow your own palm tree inside the house, but you
can start seedlings for colorful flowers inside to help save you money.
Another hint to saving money while planning your landscape
design, is to think flea markets and thrift stores. You can find amazing
trinkets, and treasures to help enhance your focal points throughout the
gardens. Each item you find should be a conversation style piece, throwing in a
piece of history, or your own personal taste. If you are handy with making
things, what about creating a pagoda, or archway that holds Roses, Wisteria or climbing
vine with color to enhance a sitting area. Consider checking out the various
books at the library for ideas and instructions.
Most nurseries have what is called "Collections"
of plants. Each collection groups various types of colorful plants of all
various types of sizes and colors at a discounted price. Talk to your
horticulturalist at your local nursery to see if they have such a collection
for your design. Don't be embarrassed showing them your stick figure style
design, you're not a landscape designer, you're a homeowner looking to create
something new and different. Remember create small projects you can do over a
beautiful weekend, and before you know it, you'll create your own
mini-Monticello. Gardening is all about trials and tribulations, learn from
your mistakes and relish in those areas that turned out the way you wanted them
too.
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