Before you start bringing your landscaping design to life, a little planning goes a long way in creating a beautiful and functional front yard. Here are a few things every homeowner needs to consider before starting a front yard DIY makeover project:
Sizing Up Your Yard
Determine whether you’re working with a small front yard or a more expansive space. Small yards require clever design to maximize every inch, while larger areas offer more flexibility. And, don’t despair if your front yard is compact! There are plenty of small front yard landscaping ideas specifically designed for homeowners who have to work with smaller areas. Think vertical gardening with window boxes or hanging planters, and strategically placed shrubs to create definition. On the other hand, a larger front yard offers more possibilities, but it can also feel overwhelming. Break it down into sections and prioritize areas you want to highlight.
Sun or Shade?
Next up, you have to decide if you want your front yard covered or open. Covered front yards are for homeowners who want to extend their homes beyond the indoors. But most homeowners love to leave the front yard open or have sectional shaded areas. This is because full sun exposure means you can choose a wide variety of plants that thrive in warmth. You can opt for colorful blooms and drought-tolerant options to keep your landscaping looking vibrant. But if you want to embrace the cooler, more sheltered feel of a shaded front yard, consider adding lush green foliage plants like ferns and hostas will flourish here.