The Science of Home Landscaping

Believe it or not, there is actually a science to setting up your lawn in such a way that it appeals to other people. Much like advertising, the goal of an avid and dedicated landscaper is to get the passer-by to take a second glance, be surprised or impressed, or even take a picture.
Here are a few steps you can take to improve your yard from a scientific, and methodological standpoint.

1. Improve Property Value

   Beyond your yard lies your property. Everything about the land that is considered to be yours (but is actually owned by the bank) needs to be appealing. While this is much like curb appeal, improving your property value is more than just making your lawn approachable. It's about making your home spectacular. Not your house; not your yard; your home! It is every square inch of property that you are responsible for.
   
   • Start with a vantage point. This the point of view that people approaching your home take. It is the outside looking in. Take a step outside of your property and see what others see. Notice the lawn and the porch. Can you see the side of the house or even some areas of the backyard? How is the paint on your house?
   • Do not look at specifics. Look at the big picture of each segment of your home. Is there an underlying theme? That sort of thing.

2. Does Everything Flow?

   When noticing the underlying theme of your home you need to make sure nothing is random. A tire swing doesn't belong in the midst of cacti, cowboy boots, and saddles.
   
   • A big part of a well flowing yard is how each part of your yard connect. Having a nice cement path wrapping around your yard or some decorative stepping stones cutting through your yard to allow for people to coordinate where they should and should not be stepping.
   • A real landscaping activist would even consider the maintenance of one's yard. Rather than keeping the garbage barrels on the side of the house or near the garage in plain sight They set up and designated spots and build paths for things like garbage barrels and Orbit sprinkler timers.
     


3. Focal Point

   The Focal Point is something every landscaper worries about. It is crowning jewel of a nice looking yard.
   This is usually something like the front door in the front yard, or a
   cabana or something in the back. You want the natural flow of the vantage point to lead your guests to the focal point.
   

Now do you see how landscaping can be a scientific process?