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LANDSCAPE TIP - Simplicity In Design
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Simplicity, believe it or not, is one of the basic principles of landscaping and garden design. However, simplicity doesn't mean you have to be totally simplistic.

In the last issue we looked at and did a walk through of how I come up with a specific design idea (shape) out of the necessities that a design calls for. This was in response to a question from one of our readers.

You can see that issue at:

Landscaping Newsletter 09-26-03

Now we can look at how to fill up your idea or shape.

For beginners and do it yourselfers, trying to place too many objects, plant varieties, and elements can lead to confusion and a distorted perception of the outcome or finished landscaping plans. Keeping the design simple in the beginning will help keep things clear and in perspective. You can always add more later.

The best example I can think of is in garden plant selection and color combinations. Plant selection is usually a biggie obstacle in landscaping ideas for most people. You can get more impact from a simple selection of a few varieties and color combinations than you will from a large mix match of different plants.

Pick two or three shades or hues and repeat them throughout the landscape or garden. Repetition is also a principle of landscape design.

Here's a neat design "trick" to try:

If you want make a bold statement and create a lot of impact try building a few beds or borders using several different shades of the same color. Do this using several different species and you'll also create a contrast of texture. Contrast and variation of texture are also principles of design.

Keep your design simple but not simplistic. You can use boulders, gravels, mulches, and such. Just don't use ten different colors of boulders and three different colors of gravel.

Every good garden design displays simplicity.

Also see:

Principles Of Landscaping

Garden Planting ideas
or:
Encyclopedia Of Plants

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Landscape Tip - Create A Gravel Path
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In contrast to concrete, brick, or flagstone, gravel paths and walkways are about as versatile, inexpensive, and simple as you can get (since we're on the subject of simplicity). Gravel also makes an excellent ground cover where shade won't permit anything else to grow.

For pathways and childrens play areas I would suggest a fine pea gravel which is basically pea size and shape and is void of jagged edges. If it's too small, it can more easily stick to your shoes and be tracked indoors. Size and color, of course, depend on what is available in your area.

It's important to underlay the area with a durable landscape fabric. Don't use plastic. It will trap water, create a soupy mess, and doesn't allow the soil to "breathe". And don't use cheap fabric as it will tear and disintegrate under traffic and time.

I personally use a professional 3 oz. spunbonded landscape fabric. It allows soil to breathe, water to penetrate, and keeps weeds and grass down.

Two inches of gravel is about the right depth. Anything thicker will be too mushy to walk on. If this is still uncomfortable for you, you can incorporate stones, pavers, or flagstone into or on top of the area. Simple, yet inexpensive and it looks good and fits almost anywhere.

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GARDEN TIP - Time For bareroots and Roses
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In most parts of the U.S. it's getting close to or already is time to start thinking about the bare root plants you'll plant in the spring garden. By bareroot I mean balled, burlapped, or bare trees, shrubs, and Roses.

I say most parts of the Country because here in Carlsbad, New Mexico, we haven't even had a hard enough frost to drop the leaves off of the trees. And us landscape designers and contractors are still hard at it trying to finish out the season.

Anyway.....

The best time to plant bareroot plants is in the Fall and Winter. This allows these plants time to establish a good root structure before the growing demands of Spring. Yes, even in dead of Winter plants will produce a root system and begin to become established.

After planting, remember, that even in Winter these plants will still need water. A good soak every 7 to 10 days should be good in most areas. Also, don't fertilize until plants have established leaves that are mature and past the Bud stage. And even then, go lightly.

For just Roses -

Select grade #1 select Roses. Check the soil and roots to make sure they're not dried out. The roots should be pliable and not crack.

Try and pick Roses that have a good form to begin with. 3 or 4 thick, upright stalks usually creates bushes with good form. Also, try and avoid bushes that are waxed to lock in moisture. Even in colder climates, the sun gets hot enough to burn them from the wax.

Avoid planting in the shade or too much shade. Roses need at least 6 hours of sun to do well. However, they don't like it too hot. Morning sun is best and do try and keep away from hot walls and rock beds.

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If you get stuck on your planting scheme, see Pre planned gardens - Plans for creative and economical ways to use pre planned garden designs in your landscaping project.

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That's all for this issue. Until next issue, take a look at the new pictures gallery at Landscaping Ideas For The Front Yard. It's a great gallery of ideas with a few hundred front yard landscaping pictures.

If you have questions or comments, feel free to email me at:
steve@the-landscape-design- site.com

Steve Boulden
S&S Designed Landscaping,LLC

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