Landscaping Trends for 2024: What's Hot in Outdoor Design
As we step into 2024, the world of landscaping continues to evolve, there are exciting new trends and innovations to elevate outdoor spaces.
Whether you're planning a full garden makeover or simply looking to refresh your yard, staying ahead of the curve with the latest trends can help you create a landscape that's both stylish and functional. Here are some of the hottest landscaping trends for 2024:
Sustainable Landscaping: With a growing emphasis on environmental consciousness, sustainable landscaping practices are becoming increasingly popular. This includes incorporating native plants, using water-efficient irrigation systems, and opting for eco-friendly materials like reclaimed wood and recycled pavers.
Multi-Functional Outdoor Spaces: Today's homeowners are seeking outdoor spaces that serve multiple purposes, from entertaining guests to relaxing and unwinding. This trend includes the integration of features such as outdoor kitchens, fire pits, seating areas, and even outdoor theaters, creating versatile spaces that can be enjoyed year-round.
Vertical Gardens: As urban living spaces become more compact, vertical gardens are gaining popularity as a space-saving solution. These green walls not only add visual interest but also provide insulation, improve air quality, and can even help reduce noise pollution.
Tech-Enabled Landscapes: Technology is playing an increasingly significant role in landscaping, with innovations such as smart irrigation systems, robotic lawn mowers, and outdoor lighting controlled via smartphone apps. These tech-enabled features not only add convenience but also help conserve resources and optimize efficiency.
Naturalistic Design: Inspired by the beauty of nature, naturalistic design is all about creating landscapes that mimic the look and feel of natural habitats. This trend emphasizes the use of organic shapes, native plants, and natural materials to create a harmonious and immersive outdoor experience.
Pollinator Gardens: As concerns about declining pollinator populations grow, more homeowners are turning to pollinator gardens to support bees, butterflies, and other vital pollinators. These gardens feature a diverse array of flowering plants that provide food and habitat for pollinators while adding color and beauty to the landscape.
Artificial Intelligence in Landscaping: AI-driven tools and technologies are revolutionizing the landscaping industry, offering insights and recommendations to optimize plant selection, irrigation schedules, and maintenance tasks. From virtual landscape design software to drones for aerial mapping, AI is helping homeowners and landscapers alike create more efficient and sustainable landscapes.
Outdoor Wellness Spaces: In today's fast-paced world, outdoor spaces that promote health and wellness are in high demand. This trend includes features such as meditation gardens, yoga decks, and therapeutic water features designed to foster relaxation, stress relief, and connection with nature.
By incorporating these cutting-edge trends into your landscape design, you can create an outdoor space that's not only visually stunning but also sustainable, functional, and tailored to your lifestyle. LovingScapes is here to help make that happen.
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Landscaper for Your Dream Yard
Are you dreaming of a lush, picturesque garden or a stunning outdoor living space but unsure where to start? Finding the right landscaper can make all the difference in turning your vision into reality.
Here are some key steps to help you find the perfect landscaper for your project:
Define Your Vision: Before you start your search, take some time to define your landscaping goals. What do you envision for your outdoor space? Do you want a low-maintenance garden, a cozy patio area, or a sprawling lawn? Having a clear vision will help you communicate your expectations to potential landscapers.
Research and Referrals: Start by asking friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations. Personal referrals can be invaluable in finding a trustworthy and reliable landscaper. You can also research online for landscapers in your area and read reviews and testimonials from their previous clients.
Check Credentials: Once you have a list of potential landscapers, it's essential to check their credentials. Make sure they are licensed and insured to work in your area.
Review Portfolios: Take the time to review the portfolios of the landscapers you're considering. Look for examples of their previous work that align with your vision. Pay attention to the quality of their craftsmanship, attention to detail, and creativity in design.
Ask for References: Don't hesitate to ask potential landscapers for references from past clients. Reach out to these references and ask about their experience working with the landscaper. Were they satisfied with the results? Did the landscaper communicate effectively and stick to the timeline and budget?
Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication is key to a successful landscaping project. Choose a landscaper who takes the time to listen to your ideas and concerns and communicates openly and transparently throughout the process. A collaborative approach will ensure that your vision is brought to life exactly as you imagined.
Get Multiple Quotes: Before making a final decision, obtain quotes from several landscapers. Compare their pricing, services, and proposed timelines to ensure you're getting the best value for your investment. Keep in mind that the lowest price isn't always the best option; consider the landscaper's experience, reputation, and the quality of their work.
Sign a Contract: Once you've selected a landscaper, make sure to sign a detailed contract outlining the scope of work, timeline, payment schedule, and any warranties or guarantees. Having a written contract will protect both parties and ensure that everyone is on the same page throughout the project.
Finding the right landscaper may take some time and effort, but it's well worth it to ensure that your landscaping project is a success. By following these steps and doing your due diligence, you can find a landscaper who will bring your dream yard to life and create an outdoor space you'll love for years to come.
Why Should You Hire A Landscaper
Aside from the interior of the house, it is also important that the exterior is well taken care of. Like other parts of the house, it also needs to fit the needs of the family using it and the design preference of the owner.
A good landscape design has a great impact to a home. It increases the value of a property and also allows us to do outdoor activities. But landscaping isn’t as simple as you think it is. It isn’t just about planting or adding some stones or walkways. There are other things that you need to consider for your home’s landscape.
So the question is, who will do the landscaping? Is it you and your family or do you hire someone to do it for you? If you decide to hire, are you going to hire those that are into gardening or professional landscapers? If you will ask me, a professional landscaper would be best because of these important reasons which we have down below.
🌱 Professional Service -
If you hire a landscaper, you are ensured of the quality of the work. These people are experts on the said field and have studied well about it. Because of this, you are guaranteed that you will get a realistic insight into the project.
You will also be ensured that you will get the landscape design that you want.
🌳 Time Saving -
If you are a busy person, you may not be able to work on your landscape because it would require a lot of time. This happens especially if you are not highly skilled. But if you just hire a landscaper, you will merely sit and watch the work progress.
You can even spend time to do other things you love while watching your landscape transform beautifully.
🌼 Getting the right plants -
This part might be easy if you are into gardening, but landscapers could help you choose the right plants for your area because they have extensive knowledge about plants.
They consider not just the type of plants that thrive in your place but also those that are suited to your landscape needs and aesthetics.
🍃 Less problems and disorder -
Well, I am not saying that things will be in a mess if you do it by yourself but there is a high chance of that happening especially if you are not an expert.
It might appear like you were just playing with your landscape if there isn’t good planning and proper landscape execution. Landscapers also have that technique to keep mess to a minimum and remove whatever disruptions that exist.
🌿 Project management -
One of the advantages of hiring a landscaper is project management because you don’t need to worry about the work at all since the landscaper will do that.
You will be assured that the professional will be watching the project closely and you don’t need to pay another person to do that for you.
🌲 Expert advice -
You will be surprised that you still have a lot of things to study about your surroundings once you talk to a landscaper.
There are things that they know that will help you improve it. For instance, they can give you tips on how to lesser soil erosion if your home is located on a steep slope. They can help you get not just a beautiful outdoor area but also the kind that is safe and functional.
🍂 Good quality and high standards -
The landscaper will surely give their best to a project because their reputation relies on the output. Because of this, you are assured that the work has good quality because of the high standards of the landscaper.
Also, you are sure that your dream landscape will be achieved without any trouble and worries on your part.
I know you worry about the cost. Don’t be bothered that much because you can ask for quotations before you start the work. This way, you will have an idea of how much you will be spending. Also, be reminded that the more demands you have for the project, the higher will be the cost. But if you have a simple landscape, the cost would be lower. So, before you decide to refuse the services of a landscaper, weigh things properly and go back to what we have mentioned above.
Getting a professional isn’t really bad after all.
Source: Home Design Lover
Small Yard Ideas: 5 Tips on How to Care for Your Lawn
Living in dense urban areas usually means smaller lawn sizes. Some people might be quick to neglect the care and management of a small yard because small yard ideas tend to oppose regular outdoor landscaping routines.
For example, lawn equipment is bulky and difficult to maneuver through tight spaces making upkeep tiresome. Shading from the surrounding houses and trees inhibits greenery growth. Limited space restricts choices of patio equipment and seating. Whatever the obstacle might be, small yard landscaping needs the proper research and attention to effectively utilize your entire outdoor space.
No matter how small your yard may seem, we have tips that will transform your space into an outdoor oasis. Create a space that helps you feel more grounded and peaceful as you follow our proven small yard landscaping ideas. We have crafted 5 tips on how to care for your lawn and optimize your small yard for outdoor activity and enjoyment.
We suggest doing a quick search for small backyard ideas on pinterest or google. Once you have a few inspirational pictures in mind, check out our tips for backyard care, maintenance, and design.
Select the Appropriate Lawn Material
In order to care for your lawn, you need to know what type of grass and lawn you are working with. Some small yard landscaping guides may suggest using artificial turf. This is a great option if you are looking for a low maintenance backyard. However, if you are interested in maintaining a natural feel in your backyard, you will want to opt for real grass.
If you already have grass growing in your yard, you should identify the type before choosing a lawn care routine. If you are starting new, you will need to evaluate your local climate to choose the best grass for your area. Here is a list of some of the most popular grass by climate in the United States.
Cool Humid Zone (Northeastern, Northern Midwest, and Pacific Northwest of the U.S.)
Bluegrass
Fescues
Ryegrasses
Bentgrasses
Cool Arid Zone (Western Areas of the U.S. Midwest)
Buffalograss
Canada Bluegrass
Wheatgrass
Warm Humid Zone (Southeastern Parts of the U.S)
St. Augustinegrass
Bermudagrass
Bahiagrass
Warm Arid Zone (Southern Parts of the U.S.)
Bermudagrass
Buffalo grass
Zoysia grass
Use Suitable Tools
Tools play a huge role in the ability to maintain your yard. Choosing high quality lawn equipment is paramount in caring for your lawn.
Lawn Mowers
If you have chosen to plant real grass, you will want to pick a lawn mower that is compact and flexible. A traditional gas-powered mower might not be the right choice for small yard landscaping. You may choose a robot lawn mower, small electric mower, or a push-type reel mower. If storage is an issue, you may want to research local lawn care services to take care of weekly lawn maintenance.
Other Tools
In addition to a lawnmower, you will want to have some other small tools on hand to maintain your lawn. These tools include:
A lawn edger
Rakes (Especially if you are surrounded by trees)
Seed spreaders
Leaf blower
Gloves
Garden Shears
Snowblower and salt
Practice Strategic Mowing Techniques
After some time, mowing bends the grass and can make it difficult to cut the blades the next time you go out. A great tip for mowing grass is to cut diagonally and change directions each time you mow. This will help to maintain a sharp-looking backyard environment.
Start a Personalized DIY Garden
Just because you have a small lawn doesn’t mean you can’t grow your own garden. One of our small backyard ideas is to create a garden planted in places other than the ground. From hanging to stacking, you have a lot of options when it comes to planting a garden. Here are a couple ideas to optimize space while maintaining an aesthetic appeal.
Hanging
Use tiered baskets and string to hang plants from a wall, ceiling, or backyard fence. Baskets can also add an extra layer of aesthetic appeal to your backyard atmosphere.
Dangle colander planters to add color and beauty to your limited backyard space.
Stacking
Align and stack up crates on the edge of one of your backyard walls. This will allow you to plant a variety of the plants in a limited space.
Similar to the crates, stack planters box in a tiered fashion and start planting herbs, flowers, and more.
Using a pyramid structure, stack your planters on top of one another. Be sure to only place seeds on the outside edges.
Vertical
Using a wooden board, attach mason jars vertically. Attach the wooden bar to a fence or wall and then plant different herbs in each of the jars.
Attach coffee cans to a wooden wall and plant a variety of flowers to the cans to add vibrancy and color.
Find a wooden trellis and pot hangers to hang tin cans down a ladder like structure. This can be placed up against the house or fence.
Create a Regular Routine for Backyard Maintenance
For stable growth, plants and greenery need a structured routine for watering, mowing, weeding, and pruning. We have broken down the easiest schedule for maintaining your lawn on a weekly basis. You will also want to check out lawn care schedules for the four different seasons.
Everyday (or 3 – 4 times a week)
If you choose to plant a personal garden, you will want to water your plants everyday or every other day—depending on the type of plants you have.
Every Week
Determine the amount of water your lawn needs and water your lawn about once a week to promote healthy grass.
As Needed
Depending on how fast your grass grows, you will probably need to mow your lawn once every 1-2 weeks.
If you have rocks or weeds in your yard, you will want to remove them as needed.
Source: Lawn Doctor
How to Boost Your Home’s Value with a Beautiful Lawn
Here are some of the top lawn care and landscaping projects you can take on to add value to your home:
Lawn Care Projects
Fertilization: The key to keeping your lawn healthy and green is regular fertilization with nutrient-rich materials. In particular, your lawn needs a steady diet of nitrogen, which fertilizer provides. Without it, your lawn is vulnerable to weeds, disease and dead grass. Because of its low cost and visual appeal, fertilization often has the highest ROI of any lawn improvement project.
Regular and Proper Watering: Water your grass three times per week (this includes rainfall).
The most effective time to water is generally morning when you will lose the smallest amount of water to wind drift and evaporation. Keep in mind that too much water interferes with healthy grass growth and makes the lawn susceptible to pests and diseases.
Regular and Proper Mowing: Take the time to learn how often and under what conditions your lawn should be mowed to keep your lawn at its healthiest. For example, knowing the ideal cutting height for the type of grass you have is very important. Keeping the height in check also means you’re clipping off weed seed heads before they can mature and seed your lawn.
Weed Control: You want to be able to enjoy your lush, green lawn, without unsightly weeds taking up your view and eating up your lawn’s nutrients. However, one size does not fit all when it comes to weed prevention and removal. You need to know what type of weeds you’re battling, and whether they are annual or perennial. Annual weeds can grow multiple times in one year, while perennial weeds establish roots in your lawn and can last for multiple seasons. Perennials need to be removed entirely, including the full roots, or they will just keep on growing.
Landscaping Projects
Outdoor Lighting: Few landscaping projects can have as big an impact as installing outdoor lights. Easy to install, low in cost, and pleasing to the eye, outdoor lighting has been named “essential” by 41% of homebuyers in a recent survey.
Trees & Shrubs: Trees and shrubs play a major part in your home’s curb appeal. They also add value to your home in a number of other ways, including protecting your lawn from storm runoff and reducing your home’s energy costs by providing shade.
Front Garden: A well-kept garden is a great way to beautify your home. While some gardens can be costly and time-consuming to maintain, a good landscaper or garden center can help you choose native plants that can be maintained with little work and at a low cost.
And don’t forget mosquito control! Mosquitoes can be a major turnoff for potential buyers. No one wants to buy a home that appears to be swarming with mosquitoes – for both comfort and health reasons. One simple task you can do to help reduce the mosquito population on your property is to empty receptacles of standing water and be vigilant about dumping any standing water every few days.
Source: Lawn Doctor