A beautiful landscape is an important feature of any property. The best landscapes look effortlessly designed, but the truth is that planning and creating the perfect landscape is a complex task that requires expertise to execute properly. Beautiful and admirable landscapes often feature a balance of aesthetic beauty, practical foliage, and ease of maintenance, which is achieved only with strategic and thoughtful planning. It is important for landscapes to be composed of a variety of layers that work well together in order to thrive within specific climates and environments. Understanding the basics of landscape layering can help you understand all the nuances and details that need to be considered to create the landscape of your dreams.
Layer 1: Ornamental Trees
Every landscape needs a background of beautiful tall trees to anchor it on the property. It’s a good idea to introduce a variety of trees with different leaves and heights, and it is important to make sure you choose trees that will thrive in your climate. Planting the trees in the right location is key – they shouldn’t be too close to your home. Trees over 40 feet tall should be maintained by professionals with the right knowledge and safety equipment.
Layer 2: Evergreen Shrubs
Evergreen shrubs help create a structure to your landscape when you don’t have fences, buildings, or other hardscape elements. Their volume and bulk add visual interest to the landscape with a variety of trunks and leafy branches. Using these shrubs helps generate texture thanks to their different leaves, needles, and sizes, and they create a backdrop for your higher priority plants.
Layer 3: Perennial Shrubs
Perennial shrubs, or deciduous shrubs, add color and vibrancy to your landscape. They are the flowering shrubs that stand out against the background of evergreen shrubs and trees. In this layer, you can really showcase your personality and style by choosing a variety of shrubs and plants with different sizes and colors to create an aesthetic that makes a statement.
Layer 4: Other Plants & Flowers
This layer is one of the most fun and interesting parts of your landscape, because it can feature perennial plants, perennial flowers, and ornamental grasses. When your plants and flowers are in bloom, they will take the spotlight and be the focus of your landscape. By adding ornamental grasses, you can utilize beautiful, low-maintenance plants that will incorporate additional unique colors and textures to customize your landscape.
Layer 5: Vines and Groundcovers
Vines and groundcovers are a part of a landscape that is often overlooked, but they are key to providing a finishing touch to your landscape. Vines can link different parts of your gardens together, whether they are weaved into flower beds or climbing up fences. Groundcovers are low-growing plants that help unify your landscape design. Many groundcovers spread widely throughout a landscape which helps smother weeds, keeps soil shady and cool, and can even add more foliage, flowers, and berries. Using these elements can create a lush and cohesive layered landscape.
Ready To Get Started On Your Dream Landscape?
With the help of the experts at Grasshopper Gardens, you can design a magazine-worthy landscape for your yard. Our team of professionals will work with you every step of the way to develop a design that you love. Take a look at our design process and contact us today for a free consultation!