We recently purchased a new home with a front lawn and a few shrubs in front. We would like to add as much as we can afford this spring. We plan to do most of the work ourselves. What priority would you suggest in adding to our landscape?
Most homeowners have limited expertise when it comes to landscape planning. An experienced landscape designer could draw a complete landscape plan that you could use until it is completed. You might look at high quality completed landscapes in your nearby area that appeal to you and ask them who designed their landscape. You might also get suggestions from a nearby full service nursery or garden store. Books on landscape design are also available.
Since trees take the longest to develop, that would be my first priority. Look for areas where you might like to shade your home or provide shade for family activities. Large shade trees planted at a reasonable distance from your home would be first priority. Perhaps a flowering tree to be viewed out the living room or family room windows. How about fruit trees for the backyard?
Next I would carefully evaluate the shrubs planted in front. A nursery or garden store could help you identify them from leaf samples. If their mature size means they will soon block window views or a sidewalk, you may want to move them to another location and replace them with something that stays smaller.
