landscape tips

Steps For Effective Landscape Planning

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

The success of any landscaping project depends on design and preparation. Thoughtful and professional planning of your landscaping will help you to create your dream backyard.

Formulating a Plan

A landscape design is first sketched on graph paper or drawn up with a CAD software program. Without the assistance of an experienced professional, creating a landscape-design plan can be somewhat intimidating for homeowners.

First, a scaled map is created to show where the property boundaries are in relation to the home. It is critical for the dimensions and placement of structures to be precisely represented to create an accurate depiction.

Studying the Property

When creating a landscape design, the entire property must be looked at as one cohesive unit. A landscape designer will know how to factor in everything from the trees and shrubs to the walkways and lighting.

You need to account for all parts of the home and yard, including patios, decks, gazebos, and pools. Design your walkways to be both aesthetically pleasing as well as safe to walk on during both day and night time. Once you have an accurate illustration of your yard, other characteristics of your property, you can add in types of vegetation and natural areas to the plan.

Creating Purpose

Once you have a thorough understanding of what you have to work with on your property you can start to think about what landscaping design features you want to incorporate. A properly landscaped yard should have something for the whole family. This may include adding flower, herb or vegetable gardens and areas for entertaining or relaxing, a play area for the kids, a pet-exercise area or spaces for hobbies and equipment repair.

Plants and Materials

Once you have a general idea of how you want your yard to be laid out you will need to choose the right plants and materials for your space. Choosing plants that are native to specific growing zones will allow them to survive and flourish while minimizing maintenance.

You will need to decide on the types of trees, shrubs, and flowers as well as materials for patios, decks and walkways, privacy screens and noise barriers. In some places, plants can also serve as structures. For example, a row or two of some type of evergreen shrub, hedge or bush can act as both a noise barrier and privacy screen.

Hiring a landscape designer will help you make these decisions and avoid common mistakes. For example, one common mistake many people make while landscaping is placing plants or trees to close together. This constricts plant growth.  

Bringing It Together

After you have determined the primary uses for your yard you can begin the process of organizing and laying out the design on paper. The house, garages, outbuilding and any other relevant structural details should be added to your design first. 

Any areas of your yard that are in public view should be given special consideration, including setting up sheltered areas for storing refuse, lawn maintenance equipment, and other miscellaneous outdoor supplies. Finally, add driveways, walkways, and entrances for patios and other main areas. Each of these basic, but important, features plays a vital role in creating an attractive and functional landscape design.

Climate and Terrain

Rainfall, wind, topography and temperature variations in the area should all be considered while you design your property. Consult a professional landscape for specific recommendations. 

Because soil heavily impacts vegetation, it is important to have a professional soil test done to determine what plants are best suited for your soil type. Topography, including slopes and variations in elevation, will affect the drainage of your property and should be factored into your decision as well. 

Sun-Shade Patterns

Daily sun and shade patterns on your property can help you map out where to plant trees in your yard. Additionally, the angles of your house, garages, sheds and other outdoor structures can help to highlight or downplay qualities of your home and yard.

Night Gardens

A night garden is a great way to add both romance and mystery to your yard. The proper selection of plants is crucial to create the perfect night garden. When in doubt, choose low-maintenance species that thrive in the moonlight. 

Plants that release scent during the night, called “noctiflora,” are some of the best choices for night gardens. Light-colored flowers and foliage that show up well in the dark are also great choices.

Lighting

A garden’s layout can have a big impact on how the light falls on and illuminates the plants. If natural lighting can’t be used for some reason, you can achieve the desired effect with landscaping lights. 

The three main types of landscape lighting include downward, upward and cross lighting.

Downward lighting adds a feeling of class and is a fashionable choice for casting light from above. Upward lighting works well for illuminating the sides of structures, such as walls and pillars, from the ground, adding depth to an otherwise boring scene. Cross lighting is designed to cast light a specific point from both sides, above and/or below.

Multi-colored lighting will allow you to express yourself, mix things up and make the landscape features truly pop at night. A well-lit multicolored path can also be a stunning feature for a night garden.

When you decide to landscape your backyard, it is important to craft a meticulous landscaping plan. If you would like to redesign your backyard, call the experts at Hidden Creek Landscaping. Together, we can create a backyard that’s perfect for you and your whole family.

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Landscape Water Features

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Landscape water features give you a natural sanctuary providing a respite from the stresses of the day right inside your own backyard. There is a richness and diversity that water features produce as both people and nature respond to the refreshing and soothing qualities of moving water.

Whether it is a water fountain nestled among your flowers, a pool waterfall with underwater lighting as a focal point, a pond stocked with exotic fish, a stone waterfall, or spillways that feed into a meandering stream, we have ideas and tips for creating, planning and installing water features that cater to your specific desires.

 

Water has a Healing Effect

Landscape Water Features

Why install a water feature? Well, listening to the sounds of flowing or trickling water, studies have shown, ranks among the same beneficial effects we glean from sleep or massage for their restorative, stress-relieving powers. Water features help relax mind, body and spirit. There are all manners of stone and pool waterfalls, stream designs, koi ponds, fountains and more from which to select your own personal landscape water features.

 

Our Recommendations

The options for backyard water features in Ohio are endless whether you are dealing with limited space or have a large spread of land. We specialize in scaling landscaping projects to add beautiful tranquility to your outdoor living space. Not sure what type of water feature you are looking for to enhance your lawn and garden? Here is our comparison of a few common types to give you a better understanding of will work for you in your garden:

Pools

For one of the most classic water features, it is hard to beat the allure of a pool. This will take a substantial initial investment, but will be a great source of entertainment and beauty for years to come. You can even spice them up with fountains or waterfalls for a natural, relaxing feature. 

Pros:

  • Great source of entertainment for all ages
  • Flexibility – the pool can be whatever size/shape/style you need it to be
  • Increases the value of your home
  • Able to be heated to use for longer time period during the year
  • Great way to exercise

Cons:

  • Requires maintenance to keep the water clean and free of the accumulation of sticks, dirt, algae, etc.
  • Initial excavation may require substantial digging and investment
  • Not able to use all throughout the year
  • May increase your insurance costs

 

Container Ponds

If your available space is limited, a container pond is an impermanent and convenient alternative to an in-ground pool. You can convert just about any container into a container pond from glazed pots to a half-cut wine barrel to concrete bowls, all of which can be of any size. Whether the diameter is the same from top to bottom or the bowl is tapered, they typically have a wide opening, but even a 3-foot diameter allows enough space inside to add fish, aquatic grass, water lilies or other suitable plants for the perfect aesthetic touch. You can use a convenient plant support ring, which is a simple wire rack with openings that hold the plants in their containers just beneath the water’s surface. Now you are dealing with the equivalent of a fish tank to which you can add pumps and filters to keep the water clean and circulating.

Pros:

Landscape Water Features

  • No need for digging or excavation
  • Excellent choice for small spaces
  • Container ponds are available as kits
  • An inexpensive way to “get your feet wet” in the world of landscaping water features. Start with something small and graduate to bigger projects

Cons:

  • You may need to seal your container to prevent leakage
  • The deeper the container, the more difficult it can be to keep clean
  • You need to be cautious of the drowning risk posed when small children present

 

Wall Fountain

Wall fountains provide another alternative when space is an issue. These vertical water features offer the unexpected treat of a water aesthetic within the confines of compact spaces. They typically have a basin to catch and circulate the water with some wall fountains spilling directly into a container pond. Wall fountains use a pump requiring tubing or pipes that are invisibly set behind the fountain.

Pros:

  • Prime for small spaces
  • Can be uniquely designed and installed
  • Available as easy-to-assemble kits that are simple plug-in units
  • Different sizes and shapes available

Cons:

  • Fountain flow is not adjustable without an adjustable valve
  • Cost comparison between a kit and designing your own wall fountain is negligible
  • Can increase humidity in the air

 

Streams

For your larger property, man-made streams present a way to incorporate natural pools and waterfalls while offering a feature that may sidle up to a walkway, providing a tranquil path for all who traverse the landscape.

Pros:

  • Lends to a more natural, informal design
  • Adapts well to existing water features or to expand upon what you may already have in place
  • Conducive to decorative plants, grasses and river rocks for a natural aesthetic

Cons:

  • Streams require a pump system and plumbing to route the flow of water from the pond or pool destination back to the start of the stream
  • Longer streams just look better, which can involve a significant amount of digging
  • The initial build can be costly
  • Requires significant maintenance for the size and organic matter that can accumulate

 

Whatever landscape water features that you select, you should always install a pump to keep the water circulating. This helps detract still-water insects such as mosquitoes and wasps. If you do add fish and plants, make sure your pumps, filters and cleaners are up to the task. Anytime you install an outdoor landscape water feature that includes fish, expect to see other interested creatures appear on the scene such as frogs, raccoons and herons.

The pleasurable effects of landscape water features enhance the overall experience of your garden, whether enjoying a backyard party, a barbecue get-together or simply a private break all by yourself. You can make your yard a sanctuary, and the investment not only offers a calming presence at home, but it contributes to your property value as well.

If you are interested in learning more about custom landscape water features or how to winterize your existing features, our expert team of creative landscaping professionals can provide insight and in-depth knowledge of the many types of feature designs as well as the local Ohio terrain and trends. Contact us today to discuss your dream landscape and how we can bring your plans to fruition!

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Why You Should Start Your Spring Projects in the Fall

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

pexels-photo-259588A number of homeowners consider spring and summer as the perfect seasons to maintain their garden and lawn. However, landscaping experts have found that proper prepping and other fall projects lead to lusher spring landscaping. Below are some details on fall projects you can do to prepare your landscaping for the spring:

• Apply chemicals to stop the growth of winter weeds in the flower beds. Trim your shrubs and you can also add seasonal color by planting chrysanthemums in the fall.

• If there are perennials in the yard, now is the time to cut them back. Plants like daylilies can also be divided at this time.

• Add some type of organic compost to the landscape. Following this, you can add about 2 inches of mulch or pine straw.

• Fall is also the best time to plant shrubs and trees. At this time of the year, the strongest hydrocarbons are present in the soil and this makes the roots grow to their strongest potential.

• It is very important for your spring bulbs to be planted in the fall. To emerge beautifully in the spring, they require the cold of the winter as the weather change. The colder the season, the better it is for the spring bulbs.

• Mix in compost with the existing soil and allow it to marinate throughout the winter. The fall is the ideal time to ensure the soil has adequate nourishment to make it through the cold months of winter. This nourishment is provided through proper composting.

Any grass growing in your yard should be cleaned up during the fall. Any debris that remains and covers the turf will compact and suffocate the grass and compact the soil. When it starts to warm up, the grass will have difficulty growing in the compacted soil.

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Tips For Planning Your Flower Beds Before Planting

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

shutterstock_167236778Planting a garden -vegetable or otherwise- can be quite a challenge for the untrained hand. Not every one of us grew up on a farm or went to horticulture school. So the basics of preparing flower beds for planting may not always be on one’s fingertips, literally. However, practice makes perfect, as no man was born wise. Land preparation is a lot like planning ahead for an important event or gathering. Leave a stone unturned and you might just see guests leaving early, or complaining their lungs out simply because they’re not impressed. Same applies with flower bed preparation. Flowers grow better when they’re planted in well prepared soil than when they’re just thrust into the action and expected to perform wonders. Here are some landscaping tips to keep you busy this season.

Seedlings To Be Transplanted. Like they say, different strokes for different folks. Seedlings require a specific approach to land preparation that differs significantly from when you sow your seeds directly into the soil.

Till Your Soil. The first thing you need to do is ensure that the soil has been tilled to an average depth of at least 20 inches. You must remember that seedlings have tender, fledgling roots that will struggle to penetrate hard soil. Tilling ensures that roots can spread sufficiently enough to harness moisture and nutrients at various depths. In the same breath, tilling exposes underlying pests and frees latent air. Good aeration is important to a young plant’s life.

Digging Holes. The next step is to dig your holes. The secret here is to plant at a depth that is double the height of the seedling retainer pack. Once dug, fill a third of the holes with manure and then proceed to insert the seedlings. Manuring gives seedlings the nutrients they need before they’re big enough to harness nutrients at lower depths. Now, compress the edges of the planted surface as you press the soil downwards. This for a rigid and firm placement.

Then last but not least, water the seedlings regularly. Doing so gives them a smooth transition from youth to adulthood and improves their flower yield tremendously.

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Landscaping Tips That Really Work

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

IMG_1342Anyone can have a garden that looks like it is from paradise. However, landscaping tips that really work are those that are passed on from generation to generation. So this is us passing on to you what we learned and continue to practice with resounding success.

Self-sufficiency. All you truly need in terms of mulch and manure is right under your nose without you even knowing it. Fallen leaves and freshly cut grass are two things you need in order to maintain your very own compost heap. You will find that you will save a lot of money whilst at the same time getting a sense of satisfaction that comes with being self sufficient. As it turns out, Greg never went to the vegetable store as all he ever really needed was right there in his garden.

Winning The War On Weeds. Weeds are not only parasitic plants that suck the life out of your flowers and lawn, but they also give a pretty unkempt appearance to your garden. Herbicides are the quickest way to rid your garden of a common garden pestilence the easy way. All you need are snapshots of the annoying proliferation which you can then give to a specialist. He/she will then direct you to use a herbicide specific to it. Not only will your plants grow with increased vigor and tenacity, but your garden will look much neater without them.

Edging. Before i forget, you must also edge you beds and lawn to give your home that edgy, transcendent look. All you need is a flat shovel, a design and you’re good to go.

Happy landscaping 🙂

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Tips For Homeowners to Save For Landscaping Upgrades

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

11-CAT01-4254A-08Patio lovers can make their dreams come true this year by saving up for a beautiful new outdoor area. A patio is a perfect spot to relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors in every season. Here are some tips for homeowners to save for landscaping upgrades and a lovely patio this year:

Be selective. If you’re working with a budget, you’ll want to be selective about where you spend the bulk of your money. Focus on the must-have features that you want. Do plan to spend money on high quality patio furniture, since it will make your space more stylish and comfortable. Choosing quality outdoor furnishings will also ensure that they hold up well in the outdoors. Think about other features you would love to include, such as a water feature, a heat source like a fire pit, and any kind of outdoor food prep area.

Hire professionals. Don’t risk losing money on a poorly done patio. Hire skilled professionals who can show you a portfolio of attractive completed jobs they’ve done for other clients. Share your vision with them and ask questions. They should be able to understand what you want and what will work best for your property and budget. Make sure that the contractors you choose are insured and have references. They should be able to understand your wants and execute your vision within a reasonable amount of time and for a fair price.

Plan on plants. Plan to soften and beautify the patio by using plants to enhance the surrounding landscaping. Choose colorful flowers, shrubs, and other plants that are the right size and shape for the space around the patio. Depending on the space you have, you can create colorful flower beds that will add texture and charm without costing a fortune. By focusing on a great design, you’ll be able to save and achieve the patio you’ve always wanted.

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Popular Fall Landscaping Designs For Patio Owners

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

screen-shot-2016-10-18-at-5-27-03-pmLounging around or entertaining guests in the backyard might still be possible where you live. Patio lovers know that this space can be ideal for lounging or entertaining during the fall. These fall landscaping design tips can be used to transform your patio into a warm and cozy retreat well into the season:

Bring on the Heat: A fireplace is a great feature for any patio that will be used during the fall. To make it even more functional, the fireplace border can be extended to create a back for built-in benches on either side of the fireplace. With some comfy seats and cushion, this will be a great spot to spend precious time with loved ones. Additionally, if your patio backs up to the border of your yard, enough space could be included to plant some dense, tall-growing shrubs or trees.

Create Warmth with Your Design Choices: If your patio is large, you can transform it into smaller, more intimate spaces. You can use a combination on freestanding and built-in furniture pieces to define spaces. For example, you can have a bench built around a fire pit to enjoy the company of loved ones in a more intimate setting. A single flooring material can also be used to give the different spaces a cohesive feel.

To add to the flair of the space, a touch of whimsy can be added with cushions and pillows in beautiful fall colors. In addition to dressing up chairs and benches, they will add to the coziness of the seating areas.

These are just a few tips on how patio lovers can continue to enjoy the space during the fall season. In essence, fall colors, comfy seating and a fire feature are the main necessities of enjoying patio time during the season. Everything else is just an added bonus.

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