Designing Your Landscape
CREATING YOUR PLAN…
Measure and draw only the area you plan to work on. This grid page will accommodate about half of most yards. Use a scale of 1/8 inch = 1 foot (1 square = 1 foot).
Start with the street and property lines, then “locate” the house.
Add significant permanent features such as driveways, sidewalks, the air conditioner unit, clothes lines, fences, utility boxes, existing trees, shrubs and flower beds. A useful final plan depends on careful measurement and drawing of these features.
Add detail to the house, showing widths of windows and doors. Indicate the measurement from the bottom of windows to the ground. This is necessary for making plant choices. Also note the locations of water faucets and air vents and the direction of north.
Other Things To Do..
- Take photos of the area of work (see enclosed “Photo Tips”).
- Take a soil sample (see sample bag and instructions).
- Make a list of concerns, goals and ideas (example: hide unsightly view, add bench near front walk).
- Have fun with this. You are about to realize much greater value in your outdoor environment!
Plan Example
HOW TO TAKE A SOIL SAMPLE
When: Take the sample any time prior to your design appointment, preferably when the ground is somewhat dry
Where: Take several samples from the area where you plan to do new plantings.
How: Use a garden trowel or spade to dig a hole approximately 3” wide x 8” deep at three different locations as show above. Place soil from each hole in the same bucket and mix together to create a representative sample. Place a large handful of soil in the bag provided and bring it to your
design appointment
PLAN eXAMPLE
Designing Your Landscape
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