Landscape Design & Why You Should Start Planning Early

Landscape design is a process that can occur all year round. But for most people, it’s something that we don’t remember until the snow has melted. If you’re waiting to start your landscape design project until spring, think again! In most cases, getting started early will ensure that your project is ready to “break ground” come spring. At the very least, you’ll have a better idea of when your project will begin since the plans are already in place.

What is the Landscape Design Process Like?

Before starting a new landscaping project, it’s helpful to get an idea of your current space and how you use it. Do you entertain a lot and need more patio space? Do you prefer privacy and want more plants and hardscaping to provide that? Or, it can be as small as wanting a shrub planted in front of your window to block headlights that constantly shine in it.

Keep in mind that a landscaping expert will be able to help you understand your current problems and what they can improve. You don’t need to have all the answers! Nevertheless, having a good idea of your goals, likes, and dislikes, will give your designer a better idea of where to start.

Steps in the Landscape Design Process

1. First meeting to begin to assemble a plan based on wants, needs, visions, and goals.
2. Conduct a site analysis of your property to determine:
   1. 1. Water flow and drainage
      2. Scenic views to block or enhance with landscaping elements
      3. Focal points like water fountains, statues, gardens, or fire features
      4. City and county ordinances to consider for your area
   2. Develop a landscape plan that includes:
      1. Existing landscaping and vegetation that will stay or be removed
      2. New vegetation like plants, shrubs, trees, and garden areas
      3. Hardscaping, pavers, fire pits/places (Not sure what hardscaping is? Read our “What is Hardscape?” blog to learn more about it!)
      4. Permanent features
      5. Lighting to enhance areas of your property

   So…why should you start early?

   Before you begin to landscape your property, you need to plan your landscape design. Depending on your project, this can vary in how long it will take to complete. Additionally, giving a landscaper a call and booking a consultation doesn’t always mean you’ll get an appointment right away. In fact, if it’s a busy season, your project (and breaking ground) may not be able to begin until the following season.

   Getting started doesn’t mean you need to know all the details of what you want to accomplish. It can be as easy as giving a landscape design expert a call and booking a free consultation. (Even in the winter!) This ensures that your designer knows exactly what and can give you an estimated timeline of when your project can be completed. 

   How do you start your landscape design project?

   If you’re still not sure where to start, you can always begin by making a list of your goals, what your likes and dislikes are, and start googling ideas. There are many websites dedicated to getting ideas for landscaping. Search for landscaping ideas + your city or state to get better ideas of what can actually be accomplished in your area. You shouldn’t be looking for Arizona landscaping ideas when you live in Minnesota!)

A few resources you can start at for native Minnesota plants are:

Minnesota Plants Trees & Shrubs
Native Minnesota Plants

After you’ve gathered a list (or even a general idea) of what you want to change on your property, you’re ready to start talking to a local landscape design expert. No need to wait – give us a call today!