In previous blogs we have referenced the benefits both functionally and aesthetically in the installation of various hardscapes. These are patios, retaining walls, and even stone walkways. Anything that involves the use of rock or stone in landscaping, can be considered a hardscape. However, One point of trouble that many homeowners encounter once they have installed a hardscape, is how to landscape in and around it. A patio is nice, but can become bland if not assisted properly through the addition of some landscaping elements. We are here to help you in your attempt to navigate this landscaping challenge, with a short guide on landscaping around your hardscapes.
Keep It Simple: Containers
The basics of any landscaping are typically surrounding how you implement plant material into your property. Thus, when it comes to any hardscape, such as a patio, utilizing plants to add color is a great way to go. Pots and planters allow for the simple and low maintenance implementation of colorful plant material on your patio, and add to the look and feel of your hardscape. This is cheap, simple, and low maintenance, so it is never a bad way to go. If you are feeling even more low maintenance, use perennials that last all year round, rather than annuals that you have to switch out every so often. Moral of the story, use flowers, everyone likes flowers. Put these flowers in containers, and watch your hardscape elevate.
Integrate your Hardscape with Existing Material
One way to avoid the pain of having to landscape a bland yard around your hardscape is to install said hardscape around an already landscaped area. An example would be a hardscape stone edge surrounding the mulched base of a tree. Another would be a stone walkway that guides visitors through your well manicured garden. These hardscapes do not need to be landscaped around, as they already exist within a landscaped environment. At Dream Greener, we offer a very unique hardscape: boulderscapes, which can be installed in your yard and integrated with a water feature or a garden. These hardscapes not only look great, but their natural functionality smoothly fits in with your existing landscaping.
Retaining Walls: Right on Top
While these are one of the most functional hardscapes, which we go over in another blog right here, they are also one of the easiest to landscape. A retaining wall inevitably has a patch of turf right on top of it, and this is a great place to landscape. You could use decorative rocks and shrubs to create some privacy, or even put down some soil and plant some beautiful flowers. Either way, these retaining walls are great for all types of landscape enhancements from plants to trees, so use them effectively.
Use a Professional Design Build Company
At Dream Greener, we specialize in luxury landscapes for high end residential clients. We use a thorough process to ensure our clients landscape installations are exactly what they desire. So, when it comes to landscaping around hardscapes, we have you covered. We will come out and analyze your space, considering a variety of factors, from topography to soil type. We will also consider future maintenance and the current theme of your property. To create a cohesive environment we will also make sure that your installation connects with the rest of your landscape. We have gone through this process with countless clients, creating countless happy customers.
Dream Greener Lawn & Landscape is led by a staff of service experts, each with ten years or more of professional experience, focused exclusively on lawn care & maintenance, landscaping and snow & ice management. Locally owned and operated, we are proud to serve the greater Pittsburgh area. Give us a call today at (412) 835-1035.
