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Front Yard Landscaping: Do's and Don’ts
The frontage of your property welcomes you home every day and makes a positive impression on your neighbours (and any potential future buyers). So, it makes sense to put some thought into your front yard landscaping. Here are a few dos and don’ts to remember when planning the design for your front garden.
Do
1. Add the garden costs to your overall property buying plan. The best way to ensure your front yard landscaping isn’t an unwelcoming and lacklustre afterthought, is to know your budget from the get-go. Buy the most mature plants you can afford so it doesn’t take years for your home to look finished.
2. Plant your plants as soon as possible after house settlement. Even if you’re not moving into your new home straight away, the more time your plants have to grow, the faster they’ll add value.
Tip: It is best to avoid digging them in during the harsh winter.
3. Do a workshop! Not sure where to start when it comes to landscaping? Check your local council’s or community hub’s website to see if they offer free gardening workshops. Keep a look out for the next Melton City Council one here.
4. Opt for native species. Not only are indigenous plants better for the environment and local wildlife, they’re also more likely to survive in your garden and need less water. Here are some Melton-friendly varieties.
5. Choose a bigger letterbox than you think you’ll need. Modern lifestyles, easy online shopping, and possibly working from home mean we receive more deliveries and parcels than ever.
Don’t
1. Don’t do it alone. Small spaces like front yards can be tricky. You can seek expert advice, even if your budget doesn’t stretch to hire a garden designer or landscaper. Local nurseries will often offer garden design services for free.
2. Don’t forget to add at least one canopy tree. The eventual height will balance out your front garden design, and when strategically placed in your yard, it will provide free cooling, privacy, and shade for summer.
3. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your driveway. This surface takes up a large part of your front yard and is among the first thing visitors will notice. Plain asphalt works fine, but patterns, textures and colours add genuine interest. Consider brick, slate, or even natural stone for a more upscale look.
4. Don’t put the lawn in tricky-to-mow places. Consider paving, mulch, letterboxes, stones, or other materials around taps, pipes, bushes, and bin storage areas. Your backyard is better for sunbathing and picnicking at home.
5. Don’t ignore the design guidelines! You’ll only have to fix everything up later, and you have better things to do and spend your money on...like organising a memorable housewarming party.
Before you have the front yard, you need the house and land. Ask us to point you towards your perfect lot today.
