Chapter 2

Planning Your Design

 

A. Existing Elements

 

Draw a sketch of your existing landscape/yard. It doesn't have to be anything fancy, you can use a plain piece of paper or graph paper and draw it to scale. It helps to draw your design to scale because you'll be able to see if it has the right balance. On graph paper, you can use one square to represent one foot. Make a note of any existing plants, trees and shrubs. Also note any patios, paths or decks (hardscapes).

 

B. Drainage

 

When it's raining, make a note of how the water drains. You might have an area in the front yard where water collects because it's at a lower elevation than the rest of the yard. Knowing the elevations will help you plan what works best in those areas.

 

C. Sun/Shade

 

Draw directions on your design: East, West, North and South on your design. You'll need to know which areas get morning and afternoon sun. (The sun rises in the East and sets in the West.) Also make a note of any shady areas in your yard. You might have large trees that shade specific areas of your yard or a neighbor's wall that blocks out sunlight. When you know the sunny and shady areas of your yard, you'll be planting the appropriate plants or hardscape elements.

 

D. Grass

 

If have pets and/or kids, you're going to want some grass. There are many different types of grass. Find a drought tolerant grass that grows well in your area. Grass that requires a small amount of water won't grow fast and therefore, requires less mowing or weed eating.

 

Ready to rip some of that grass out? Awesome! Replace grass with a flower bed, a rock garden, a dry creek bed, or hardscape element (deck, patio, path, arbor, etc.). If you have an irrigation system to water your grass, it will need to be removed or redesigned to accommodate your new design.