As the weather warms up and the days get longer, homeowners everywhere are turning their attention to their outdoor spaces. Whether you’re looking to create a secluded oasis in your backyard or simply want to spruce up your front yard, a landscaping company can help you turn your vision into a reality.
But before you hire a landscaper, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure that you get the best results. Here are ten questions you may want to ask your landscaping contractor before planning a new design this season.
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Does Landscaping Impact Property Value?
One of the most important things to consider when evaluating landscaping ideas is how they will impact your property value. A well-designed and well-maintained landscape can significantly increase the value of your home, while a poorly planned or neglected space can have the opposite effect. Ask your landscaping contractor about how your project will impact property value and what steps they will take to ensure that your landscape serves as an asset to your home.
What Is Hardscaping?
Hardscaping refers to the use of hard materials like stone, brick, and concrete in landscaping. This is in contrast to softscaping, which includes living materials such as flowers, shrubs and trees.
Examples of hardscaping include:
- Patios
- Walkways
- Retaining walls
- Any non-living structures
Hardscaping can add form and function to your outdoor spaces, while softscaping involves the use of plants and other natural elements to decorate. A good landscaping contractor will be able to incorporate both hard and softscaping elements into your landscape design to create a cohesive and functional outdoor space.
What Are Some Low-Maintenance Softscaping Design Ideas?
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance yet beautiful landscape, there are plenty of softscaping design ideas that will help you achieve your goals. Some low-maintenance options include using native plants, using drought-tolerant plants, and using ground covers instead of lawns. Ask your landscaping contractor for ideas and recommendations that will work for your specific property and climate.
How Can I Create A Secluded Outdoor Space?
A secluded outdoor space is a great way to enjoy your backyard without feeling exposed to your neighbours or the street. Landscaping for privacy can be achieved using plants, walls, trees and other landscaping elements. A good landscaping architect will be able to help you design a secluded outdoor space that enhances the overall aesthetic of your yard.
How Can I Make The Most Of A Small Yard?
A small yard can be transformed into a beautiful outdoor space with the right design and landscaping techniques. Here are a few tips to make the most of your small yard:
- Make use of vertical space with tall plants, trellises, and walls
- Use multi-purpose furniture that can be folded away
- Use lighting that creates a sense of depth and makes the space feel larger
- Choose low-maintenance plants and hardscaping materials
- Add colour to the space with plants, flowers, and outdoor accessories
A creative landscaper can help assess your space and come up with attractive design ideas that work with what you have.
What Is Xeriscaping, & Will It Work For My Landscaping Project?
Xeriscaping is a type of landscaping that is designed to conserve water and reduce the need for irrigation. It involves the use of drought-tolerant plants and other water-saving techniques. Xeriscaping also heavily features landscaping stones and other hardscaping elements.
Ask your landscaping contractor if xeriscaping is a good option for your property and if they have experience with xeriscaping design and installation.
What Are The Benefits Of Installing A Green Roof?
Green roofs, also known as living roofs, are roofs that are covered in plants and other vegetation. They provide a number of benefits, including increased insulation, reduced urban heat, improved air quality, and reduced stormwater runoff. Ask your landscaping contractor about the feasibility of installing a green roof on your property and if the potential benefits are worth it in your climate.
What Are The Best Plants For Shade In The Summer?
If you have a shaded area in your yard that you would like to landscape, it’s important to choose plants that can thrive in low-light conditions. Some examples of shade-tolerant plants include:
- Hostas
- Ferns
- Astilbe
- Heuchera
- Carex
Make sure to ask your landscaping contractor for specific recommendations for shade-tolerant plants that will work well in your area.
What Are The Hardiest Plants For A Changing Climate?
Climate change is bringing more extreme weather conditions to many parts of the world. Therefore, it’s important to choose plants that are well-suited to your area’s shifting climate. Some examples may include:
- Sedum
- Echinacea
- Heuchera
- Salvia
- Nepeta
Ask your landscaping contractor for recommendations for hardy plants that will be able to withstand the weather conditions in your region.
What Are The Best Outdoor Lighting Trends?
Outdoor lighting can be used to highlight the best features of your landscape and create a warm and inviting ambiance in your outdoor spaces. Some popular trends right now include using
- LED lighting
- Solar lighting
- Pathway lighting
- Up & down-lighting on fences
- Spotlighting on trees
Make sure to check with your landscaping company if they can incorporate lighting design into your outdoor spaces.
Enjoy The Best Results With Lawrence Park Complete Garden Care
If you’re looking for a high-quality landscaping company in the GTA, look no further than Lawrence Park Complete Garden Care. We have the expertise and experience to help you create the outdoor space of your dreams.
From sustainable lawn maintenance to stunning backyard landscaping, our services are sure to tick every box. Reach out today, and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have!