I've decided to work on my own landscape plan. How do I begin planning?

Answer 1

This should get you started. Here is a link to a very good "do-it-yourself" landscape design website:

http://www.the-landscape-design-site.com/

Good luck with your landscape plans.

Answer 2

If you have the spare money buy a landscape design software for the computer. You can lay everything out and do your planning on a computer so you have an ideal of what it will look like and you're able to change things around on the computer as you design instead of after you start building. Some of the fancy programs have a project calculator too so you can get cost estimates. I use Realtime Landscaping Pro from Idea Spectrum. There are others out there that are better or not as good...depending on the $$ you want to put down.

I love being able to look at my project and move rocks and fences and flowers around to get the best look.

Answer 3

Just adding a little something to the other answers, when you think you have an idea, lay a garden hose out around the area where you want to start a project. Leave it there so you can see how the sun hits it and walk around and see if it looks good from all sides. It's easy to measure your square footage too, so you know how to buy your supplies. Just remember, nothing is wrong, it's your yard. Have fun!

Answer 4

On paper. Take precise measurements of the areas of your yard, and draw a sketch of your property. Highlight in red areas with underground cables (with the help of your local utility companies). Note which areas are sunny, which shady. Pay special attention to problem areas: areas with poor drainage, erosion problems, etc. As you set this information down on paper, a clearer picture of what needs to be done emerges.
Based on your sketch (particularly the location of sunny or shady areas), research which plants will grow best in the various areas of your property.
The next step -- again, to be carried out on paper -- will be to include plants and hardscape features (patios, walkways, etc.) in your sketch. For examples of planting plans, please consult Landscape Design Plans.

Answer 5

I would look at magazines and/or the internet to find a plan that you like. Then I'd take that and a basic drawing of your lot to your local garden store. They should be able to help with the naming of the plants and let you know if they are available and in your price range.

Answer 6

I would first make a list of what you would want. Lights, water feature, bird bath, bird feeders, paths, bench, seating area, garden shed, garden swing. Patio area. Decide where you would like these areas to be in your yard. Join them with paths, make them different shapes. Then decide what plants, mini trees, etc that you would like. I actually worked mine out the old fashioned way. I got a piece of bristol board and started my plans. I love it. Have fun!

Answer 7

See this posted answer:

http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=Av8xRZDFEg8GpG3zsKU3knbzy6IX?qid=20070111000130AAmTQvV