Landscaping – American Landscape

Spring Landscaping for Privacy & Security: Best Plants and Design Ideas

May 13, 2025/in Company News, Landscaping/by American Landscape

Have you ever stepped outside on a sunny spring morning only to feel like you’re on display?

It’s a common feeling—when there’s little space between you and the next door neighbor’s yard. However, privacy doesn’t always mean isolation. Just look at the Elmbrook Historical Society on Pilgrim Road in Brookfield. Despite being nestled right next to a busy road, it feels quiet, tucked away, and peaceful, thanks in large part to thoughtful landscaping.

Many homeowners in Lake Country come to us this time of year wanting that same feeling: more privacy without sacrificing the beauty of their outdoor space.

Whether it’s noisy neighbors, busy roads, or just the need to create a more peaceful space, privacy landscaping has become one of the most rewarding ways to reclaim your yard. And the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel when you step back and see your private oasis is truly satisfying.

Spring is the ideal time to start planting. With the right mix of native trees, shrubs, and perennials, you can create a natural barrier that grows fuller each year—offering visual coverage and a sense of calm. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple design strategies and the best plants suitable for creating a low-maintenance private outdoor space in Lake Country.

The Benefits of Landscaping for Privacy

Landscaping for privacy goes beyond blocking views—it changes how you experience your outdoor space.

Using plants instead of fences or walls creates a softer, more natural environment that feels peaceful and inviting. A well-designed privacy landscape can give you a quiet place to relax, cut down on noise from the street, and even make your property feel more spacious and secluded.

It also adds serious curb appeal. Layered plantings, seasonal color, and textured foliage create a dynamic look that enhances your home’s style and boosts its value.

Using native plants makes your yard more resilient and eco-friendly, supporting pollinators, birds, and local wildlife.

In short, it’s beauty and function – growing together.

Landscape Design Techniques for Privacy

You don’t need a huge yard or a tall hedge to create privacy—you just need a smart layout and the right plant combinations.

Here are a few go-to techniques we use when designing natural screens:

Layered Planting

Think of this as building a living wall with depth. Start with tall trees or evergreens, add mid-height shrubs, and finish with low-growing plants or ornamental grasses.

This layered approach creates a dense, visually interesting screen that feels organic—rather than boxed in.

Smart Placement

Where you plant matters just as much as what you plant.

Focus on key sightlines—between homes, along fence lines, or near patios and decks. A well-placed tree or a row of shrubs can make a huge difference in how open or protected your yard feels.

Natural Sound Barriers

Thick plantings do more than block views—they can also absorb noise.

Broadleaf evergreens, tall grasses, and dense shrubs can help muffle street sounds, neighbor chatter, or even air conditioning units. Mixing textures and plant heights helps disrupt sound while keeping things visually appealing.

Spring Planting Guide: Top Greenery for Natural Privacy

Ready to get planting?

These trees, shrubs, and supporting plants are not only beautiful—they’re perfectly suited for Wisconsin’s climate and make excellent natural privacy screens.

Imagine the beauty these plants will bring to your yard, creating a peaceful retreat that you can enjoy all year round.

Best Native Trees for Privacy Landscaping in Lake Country

Trees are the backbone of any privacy landscape. If you live in an area with a lot of deer, do your research before purchasing plantings. You don’t want to provide a winter buffet for the local herd. These varieties are known for their ability to grow quickly, provide year-round coverage, and thrive in Wisconsin conditions:

White Pine – Soft-needled and fast-growing. Great for windbreaks and larger spaces.
Black Hills Spruce – Compact and cold-hardy, this spruce offers a full, layered look that works well in smaller yards.
‘Techny’ Arborvitae – Ideal for hedging. Grows upright and thick and holds its shape beautifully.
‘North Pole’ Arborvitae – Tall and narrow—this is perfect for privacy in tighter areas where space is limited.
‘Star Power’ Juniper – Bred locally, this juniper provides dense coverage without getting too tall or wide.

Several deciduous trees, such as crabapples, serviceberry, redbud, hawthorn, and cornus mas, come with multiple stems and low branching, providing screening in the summer months.

5 Shrubs for Privacy Landscaping

Once you’ve established height, shrubs help fill in the middle layer of your design—providing texture, seasonal color, and even food for local wildlife:

Gray Dogwood – Fills in fast and spreads into dense thickets. Bonus: it attracts birds.
Ninebark – Bold foliage and beautiful bark. Looks great massed together for coverage.
Red Twig Dogwood – A stunner in winter with bright red stems; thrives in tricky soils too.
Witchhazel – A native that can tolerate shade. Unique late fall flowers provide interest up to snowfall.
Privet – If you want a fast-growing wall, this is the plant. It can grow up to 2’+ per year. It can be tightly pruned to create a formal effect without sacrificing density, and can be kept to whatever height you prefer.

Supporting Privacy Plants: Grasses, Perennials, and Vines That Thrive in Lake Country’s Climate

Supporting plants bring your privacy design together by filling lower spaces, climbing up fences or trellises, and adding movement, color, and pollinator interest:

Native Grasses

Grasses are great for adding height, movement, and subtle structure to your landscape. These native varieties are low-maintenance and tough—perfect for borders, mixed beds, or open privacy screens:

Big Bluestem – Tall and swaying, it adds motion and screens at heights up to 8 feet.
Switchgrass – Low-maintenance and upright—great for wind and privacy buffers.
Indian Grass – Warm-toned and elegant with strong vertical lines.

Ornamental grasses for landscaping privacy

Tall Perennials

Tall perennials can serve as beautiful visual buffers while offering long-lasting blooms and supporting pollinators. Use them in clusters or to add vertical interest throughout your planting beds:

Cup Plant – Broad, leafy, and bold—with cheerful yellow blooms.
Bee Balm – A fragrant, mid-height filler that blooms for weeks.
Iron Weed – A not-often-used native, it is a favorite for butterflies in late summer. The tall purple blooms last through September.

Vines

If you’re working with limited space or want to cover a fence, pergola, or trellis, vines are an excellent way to build vertical privacy fast. These native climbers are vigorous and attractive, making them tough enough for diverse climates:

American Hops – Fast-growing, sun-loving, and perfect for vertical privacy.
Sweet Autumn Clematis – A vigorous grower that provides massive amounts of tiny, sweet-smelling, creamy white flowers in late summer – fall.

Pro Tip: For the best results, try combining all three—evergreens, shrubs, and perennials. Together, they create a dynamic and layered privacy screen that evolves with the seasons. You’ll get height, color, movement, and full coverage—without having to rely on a single plant type to do all the work.

Start Planting For Spring With Help from American Landscape

With the right plants and a thoughtful design, you can turn your yard into a private, peaceful retreat that feels like an extension of your home. Whether you’re looking to screen off a neighbor’s view, quiet a busy street, or simply carve out a cozy space for yourself, spring is the perfect time to get started.

At American Landscape, we specialize in creating landscapes that are not only beautiful but also functional. Our team can help you choose the right plant combinations, design layered layouts, and install everything with care—so your yard grows better with every season.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get expert help tailored to your space and goals.

Tackle Winter Prep with American Landscape

December 3, 2024/in Landscaping/by Mary Monday

As the last of the autumn leaves settle, many homeowners are tempted to turn their attention indoors, leaving the garden to brave the winter on its own. But imagine stepping into your yard in early spring only to find frostbitten shrubs, withered flowers, and lawn damage from the harsh winter months.

Winter can be rough on landscapes, but with a bit of prep now, you can avoid this springtime heartbreak. Winterizing your landscape is more than just a seasonal chore—it’s an investment in year-round beauty and resilience.

With just a few simple steps, you can protect your plants, keep your lawn and garden healthy, and give your landscape the best chance to thrive through cold weather. American Landscape services makes this process straightforward with expert guidance.

This season, American Landscape can help you prepare your outdoor spaces for the winter ahead so they are vibrant in the Spring.

5 Essential Winter Prep Tips from American Landscape Services

As winter approaches, Wisconsin landscapes face unique challenges—from freezing temperatures and frost to the impact of heavy snowfall and harsh winds. Without proper preparation, these conditions can damage trees, shrubs, and gardens, affecting their growth and health for seasons to come.

Here at American Landscape, our services can help you prepare your landscape for the winter months. Our customized solutions address the specific needs of local plants, trees, and other outdoor features, facilitating a healthy and vibrant landscape in the spring.

Not quite sure where to start? Here are five winter prep tips from the American Landscape team:

Tip 1: Protect Trees and Shrubs for Winter

Winter brings a host of challenges for trees and shrubs, from freezing winds to heavy snow and ice. Without proper protection, these elements can cause frost damage, broken branches, and even harm from hungry animals foraging during the colder months.

To help your trees and shrubs withstand winter’s harshest conditions, consider the following:

Wrap Trees and Shrubs for Winter Protection

Wrapping shrubs and small trees in burlap effectively protects against snow, ice, and cold winds. Burlap acts as a breathable shield that allows moisture and air circulation while keeping harsh winds from directly impacting the plant’s structure. This technique benefits evergreen shrubs or sensitive young trees prone to winter burn.

Winter can also attract deer, rabbits, and other animals looking for food, and young tree bark or tender shrubs are often on their menu. Installing wire cages around vulnerable plants creates a physical barrier, deterring these animals from reaching and damaging the plants. Choose rust-resistant wire and place the cage securely around the base to keep animals at bay while allowing the plant to thrive safely through the season.

Placing evergreen boughs over or around shrubs for a natural and effective winter shield offers additional insulation. This method blends seamlessly into the landscape and provides a layer of warmth to help protect plants from frost. Evergreen boughs create a buffer zone that reduces direct exposure to snow and cold air, allowing more delicate shrubs to stay protected without heavy equipment.

Extra Precautions for Winter-Ready Trees and Shrubs

While wrapping and physical barriers help shield your plants from immediate winter threats, additional proactive care can ensure trees and shrubs remain healthy throughout the colder months. By inspecting and preparing them in advance, you can reduce the risk of damage from severe weather and promote a stronger regrowth come spring.

Here are four key practices to consider for well-rounded winter tree care:

Health Assessment: Inspect trees for trunk cracks, weak limbs, and discoloration, which could worsen in harsh conditions.
Winter Pruning: Trim weak or dying branches to protect trees from breakage under snow or ice.
Fertilization: Fertilization before winter is crucial as it strengthens roots and improves resilience against winter stress. Proper nutrition allows plants to endure harsh conditions and promotes healthy growth in the spring.
Emergency Removal: Remove hazardous trees or branches post-storm to prevent injury or property damage.

Tip 2: Plant and Store Bulbs Properly

Planting and storing bulbs appropriately before winter can result in a vibrant, early-spring garden. Cold-hardy bulbs can be planted directly in the ground, while tender varieties should be stored for protection against freezing temperatures.

Hardy bulbs like daffodils, tulips, crocuses, and hyacinths are ideal for early planting because they establish strong root systems before the ground freezes, preparing them to withstand winter’s chill.

Planting bulbs 6–8 inches deep creates a protective soil layer, shielding them from frost damage.

Spacing is also crucial; depending on the bulb type, aim for 3–6 inches apart to allow for healthy growth without crowding.

Tip 3: Cut Back Perennials

Deciding whether to cut back your perennials depends on both aesthetic preferences and practical needs. Trimming back perennials helps prevent disease by removing dead or decaying foliage and encouraging fresh spring growth.

However, some plants can provide winter interest and support for wildlife. Grasses and seed-heavy perennials, like coneflowers, can be left standing to add texture and provide food for birds during winter.

So, who should stay and who should go?

Cut Back: Plants like hostas and daylilies benefit from trimming to remove dead leaves and promote healthy growth.
Leave Standing: Ornamental grasses, coneflowers, and black-eyed Susans offer visual interest and shelter for wildlife throughout winter.

By balancing both needs, you’ll create a winter landscape that’s both practical and appealing.

Tip 4: Prepare the Lawn and Landscape for Snow Management

Properly preparing your lawn and landscape before the first snowstorm helps prevent long-term damage and keeps your property looking pristine throughout the winter.

Stake and Mark Essential Areas

Before snow hits, use stakes to mark important areas on your property clearly. This ensures snowplows and foot traffic stay clear of delicate plants and structures.

Use Stakes for Protection: Place stakes along driveways, walkways, and the edges of your lawn to prevent snowplows from damaging turf or other structures.
Guide Foot Traffic: Marking pathways also help direct foot traffic, protecting delicate plants or garden beds from accidental damage by heavy snow accumulation.

Final Mow

While you don’t want to drive or walk on frozen grass if possible, on warmer days you can still get in a final mow and mulch any remaining leaves into your turf. Ensure the grass is not cut too short, which can expose it to winter stress, but aim for a moderate length to protect it from frost damage.

These preparations will ensure your landscape remains intact during winter and recovers quickly when the weather warms.

Tip 5: Water Evergreens to Prevent Winter Burn

Watering your evergreens before the ground freezes is essential to prevent winter burn, which is caused by dehydration in cold weather. Continue watering your evergreens weekly until the soil freezes, ensuring the ground remains moist but not saturated, as overwatering can lead to root rot.

In addition to watering, mulching is an effective way to protect the roots from freezing temperatures. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the trees, keeping it away from the trunk to prevent moisture buildup.

Winter burn can be identified by:

Browning Needles: Needles turning brown or yellow, especially on evergreens, are a common sign of winter burn.
Desiccated Branches: Branches may become dry and brittle, losing flexibility.
Curling or Drooping Foliage: Foliage may appear curled or limp due to dehydration.
Premature Needle Drop: A sudden loss of needles, especially in evergreen plants, can indicate winter stress.
Visible Tips of Branches Turning Brown: The tips of branches or needles may turn brown and dry out due to lack of water during winter.

Proper care now can help your evergreens weather the winter and remain vibrant come spring.

Get Ready for Winter with American Landscape Services

Preparing your landscape for winter ensures a healthier, more vibrant yard come spring, reducing issues like winter burn, plant damage, and lawn stress. A little proactive care now can make all the difference in the long-term health of your plants.

For tailored advice or assistance with winterizing your outdoor space, contact American Landscape. Our services are designed to help you protect and enhance your landscape through the colder months.

Fall Landscaping Checklist

September 2, 2024/in Landscaping/by Mary Monday

Fall isn’t just about pumpkin lattes and cozy sweaters; it’s the pivotal time to prep your landscape for the colder months ahead and set the stage for a lush spring comeback. From tending to fallen leaves to planting springtime bulbs, the change in season offers a delightful array of landscaping tasks that not only enhance the beauty of our outdoor spaces but also promise a bountiful resurgence come spring. We’re highlighting the essential fall landscaping chores that everyone should have on their checklist.

Dowload Fall Checklist

Flowers

Divide & transplant perennials (while ground temperatures are still warm). Cut the tops and stems down to a few inches above the crown at the base of each plant. Once you’re done, make sure you rake the beds and dispose of dead plant material so your garden still looks fresh during the winter months.

Note: leaving a few inches of plant material and mulching above the crown is better for the plants. If any critters decide to nibble over the winter, they’ll eat the few inches above the crown instead of eating the crown and killing the plant.

Plant fall bulbs (before the ground freezes). When you plant your bulbs, unless the label says differently, plant the bigger bulbs 8” deep and the smaller bulbs at 5”. Place the bulb in the hole with the roots facing down. Once planted, cover the hole with soil but don’t pack it. Water it once.

RELATED: How to Plant Fall Bulbs

Clear leaves from flower beds
Treat perennial weeds with herbicide. Spray perennial weeds (bindweed, creeping Jenny, clover, etc.) before the first freeze to allow the weeds to take in the herbicide and prevent a weedy garden in spring.

Lawn

Aerate your lawn – fall is the best time
Fertilize your lawn. Apply now to ensure it looks its best come warmer weather.
Clear leaves from lawn. Mulching the leaves helps return nutrients to the soil. If that’s not an option for you, raking the leaves and keeping your lawn clear of debris can prevent your lawn from being smothered and stunting new grass growth.

RELATED: Comprehensive Lawn Care

Trees/Shrubs

Continue watering trees and shrubs until first frost
Protect your trees & shrubs. Wrap trees up to the lower branches using hardware cloth or tree wrap to prevent damage from deer rubbing. Cage small trees and shrubs in hardware cloth to prevent rabbit/rodent damage. Be sure to bury the cloth 2-3” beneath the surface.
Do NOT prune evergreens until spring
Remove leaves from under diseased plants and trees. If your tree/shrub had a disease issue, such as apple scab, powdery mildew, tar spot, etc., disposing of the diseased leaves will help prevent a recurrence next year.

Note: Do not compost diseased leaves.

Prevention is best, so consider getting on a spray program
Fertilize your trees and shrubs. Fertilizing in fall encourages root growth by restoring nutrients to the soil and allows for lush, healthy growth and flowering the following season.

If the list above feels daunting, feel free to reach out and schedule fall clean up services from the pros at American Landscape.

Schedule Fall Clean Up Services

Why Fall is the Ideal Season for Planting

August 23, 2024/in Landscaping/by Mary Monday

Fall is an ideal time for planting in Southeast Wisconsin, offering unique advantages that can help your garden thrive. As temperatures cool, the soil remains warm, providing perfect conditions for root development. The cooler nights and increased rainfall during this season create a more favorable environment, reducing the need for frequent watering and making it less stressful on plants. Unlike spring, where rapid temperature fluctuations can cause stress, the steady transition into winter allows new plants to establish themselves with less risk.

Tips for Successful Fall Planting

Choose the Right Plants:

Opt for perennials, shrubs, and trees that are hardy in Wisconsin’s climate. Fall is also great for planting bulbs like tulips and daffodils, which will bloom beautifully in the spring.

Additionally, consider native plants, as they are well-adapted to local conditions and require less maintenance.

Water Wisely:

Despite the increased rainfall, it’s important to water new plants regularly until the ground freezes to ensure strong root development. Deep watering encourages roots to grow downward, which enhances the plant’s ability to access moisture during dry spells.

Mulch:

Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to retain moisture and protect roots from temperature extremes. Mulching also helps suppress weeds, reducing competition for nutrients and allowing your plants to thrive.

Plant Early:

Aim to plant at least 6-8 weeks before the first hard frost. This gives plants enough time to establish themselves. Early planting also allows you to take advantage of the warm soil temperatures, which are crucial for root growth before winter sets in.

PRO TIP! The first hard frost in Southeast Wisconsin typically occurs between late October and early November. However, this can vary depending on the specific location and the year. In general, it’s a good idea to aim to finish your fall planting by mid-October to ensure your plants have enough time to establish themselves before the frost hits.

In fall, plants are more dormant, allowing them to put energy into root growth. This not only gives your garden a head start for the next growing season but also requires less maintenance, as weeds are less active and pests are fewer. Embrace the season and prepare your garden for a beautiful spring!

Our team is ready to help you tackle your fall planting. Get in touch today to schedule your service!

3 Simple Swaps for More Sustainable Gardening at Home

June 21, 2024/in Sustainable Landscaping, Landscaping/by Mary Monday

In our gardens lie an opportunity to nurture not just plants, but also the planet. Sustainable gardening offers a pathway to minimizing our environmental footprint. Read on to learn about simple things you can do, like saving water and using natural materials, to make your garden not only beautiful but also good for the planet.

Small Steps to Sustainable Gardening

When you think of sustainable gardening, you might envision a lush, green garden requiring much work and maintenance. This doesn’t have to be the case, especially for homeowners. There are many simple ways to create a beautiful, sustainable garden that doesn’t require much time, money, or labor.

Below are a few simple swaps you can make to create a sustainable garden, with some excellent ideas of how to do it.

1. Water Conservation

Water conservation is a hot topic today. With many communities experiencing droughts and water restrictions, it is important to know where to save water and how to use it properly in your garden.

Mulch Your Beds

Mulching beds and plants can help reduce evaporation, leading to less frequent watering. It can also help soil retain moisture, leading to healthier plants and a more resilient garden.

Choose Plants Adapted For a Dryer Environment

When making plant choices for your garden, consider using plants that have good drought tolerance. Read this list of drought-tolerant plants for some ideas.

Reducing Lawn Size

Large lawns and extensive hardscapes require significant resources and contribute to habitat loss. Reducing the size of lawns and incorporating sustainable hardscapes conserves resources and supports local ecosystems.

To get started, we recommend you:

Evaluate your lawn and hardscape areas to identify spaces suitable for conversion to alternative landscapes and permeable surfaces.
Prepare the soil, select appropriate plants for alternative landscapes, and choose eco-friendly hardscape materials.
Establish new landscapes and hardscapes with proper care and maintenance, ensuring that they are resilient and sustainable over time.

Rainwater Harvesting

Harvesting rainwater is a simple and sustainable way to collect and store rainwater for later use in your garden. Instead of letting rainwater runoff into storm drains, which can contribute to erosion and pollution, rainwater harvesting allows you to capture this valuable resource and put it to good use.

Implementing rainwater harvesting in your garden involves the following steps:

Assess Your Roof: Determine the surface area of your roof that can be used to collect rainwater. Based on rainfall patterns and roof size, calculate the amount of water you can harvest.
Install Gutters and Downspouts: Install gutters along the edge of your roof to collect rainwater and direct it towards downspouts. Ensure they are securely attached and direct water towards a suitable collection point.
Choose Collection Methods: Decide on the rainwater collection system that best suits your needs. Options include rain barrels, cisterns, or underground tanks. Consider available space, budget, and desired water storage capacity.
Install Collection Containers: Position your chosen rainwater collection containers beneath downspouts to capture rainwater as it flows from the roof. Ensure containers are stable and properly sealed to prevent contamination and mosquito breeding.
Filter and Purify: Install filters or screens to remove debris and sediment from collected rainwater.
Use and Maintain: Harvested rainwater can water your garden, wash outdoor surfaces, or be used for other non-potable purposes. Regularly inspect and maintain your rainwater harvesting system to ensure proper functioning and prevent potential issues.

Harvesting rainwater offers numerous benefits for both your garden and the environment. By capturing rainwater and using it to irrigate your plants, you can reduce reliance on municipal water sources, conserve water resources, and lower your utility bills.

2. Use of Natural Products

Natural products can be used in the garden to create a habitat for beneficial insects, optimal soil conditions, and a natural look. Not sure where to start? Try these tips:

Composting

Composting involves decomposing organic matter into nutrient-rich compost, benefiting soil health and waste reduction. Getting started with composting is as simple as:

Layering organic materials in a compost bin or pile.
Mixing of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials.
Turning the compost regularly to aerate it and speed up decomposition.

With time, you’ll have nutrient-rich compost to enrich your garden soil. Composting offers several benefits, including improved soil structure, increased water retention, and reduced need for chemical fertilizers. Additionally, it diverts organic waste from landfills, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Natural Pest Control

Natural pest control methods utilize beneficial insects and homemade sprays to manage garden pests without chemicals. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Attract beneficial insects by planting diverse, pollinator-friendly flowers and herbs.
Implement companion planting strategies to deter pests and boost plant health naturally.

Natural pest control reduces harm to beneficial insects and wildlife while effectively managing pest populations. It also minimizes chemical exposure for gardeners and promotes safer, healthier plants.

3. Plant Selection and Garden Design

One simple swap that can greatly impact sustainability is making the most of what you already have. Considering that, you’ll want to consider plant selection and garden design.

Native Planting

Native plants naturally occur and have adapted to local conditions, requiring less maintenance than non-native species. To create a low-maintenance garden, choose native plants that thrive in your region and are well-suited to local weather and soil conditions.

Native plants conserve water, reduce chemical inputs, and provide habitat for local wildlife. They enhance biodiversity and ecosystem resilience, contributing to overall ecosystem health.

Permeable Pavers

Permeable Pavers allow water to pass through in-between the pavers, reducing runoff and letting the water soak back into your soil. Anytime runoff (which can wash erosion and chemicals into lakes, rivers, and streams) is prevented, it contributes to a healthier environment. Many municipalities, especially in lakeshore communities, are requiring permeable pavers and limited hardscapes to help keep our lakes clean.

Bioswales & Rain Gardens

Designing a simple bioswale or rain garden to catch runoff or enhance an area with a drainage issue is also a benefit to the environment. Although they do require maintenance, like any landscape bed, the benefits of a rain garden can outweigh the work.

These systems allow water to accumulate in areas, filter down through the roots of native plants, and back into your yard. They can be quite attractive. In addition to conserving water, they are great places for beneficial birds and insects to visit.

Embracing Sustainable Gardening with American Landscape

As we strive to create more sustainable gardens, remember that every small change can make a big difference. By incorporating practices like drip irrigation, composting, and native plant selection, we not only enhance the beauty of our outdoor spaces but also contribute to the health of our environment.

Let’s continue this journey towards sustainability. American Landscape stands ready to assist those seeking expert guidance and support. Whether it’s designing eco-friendly landscapes or providing sustainable gardening solutions, our team at American Landscape is here to help you cultivate greener, more sustainable gardens.

Contact us today to get started!

5 Curb Appeal Landscaping Ideas for Selling Your Home

May 7, 2024/in Landscaping/by Mary Monday

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to selling a home. Curb appeal – the look and feel of a property from the street – can make or break a potential buyer’s interest.

A well-landscaped front yard that’s inviting and looks cared for signals to buyers that the home has been maintained and loved. In fact, research shows that the right landscaping can increase a home’s overall resale value by an average of 15-20%. On the other hand, a neglected exterior can turn off buyers before they even step inside the house.

That’s why curb appeal landscaping is necessary when getting a home ready to sell. Whether you choose to work with a professional landscaper or tackle the project yourself, it’s important to consider the features and design principles that will make the biggest impact on buyers.

Curb Appeal Landscaping Design Principles

To ensure your landscaping looks its best, consider some basic design principles. These include:

Balance and Symmetry: Creating an overall sense of balance and symmetry helps to guide the eye throughout the property. It also provides a sense of order and harmony. This creates a relaxing environment for buyers to envision themselves in.
Focal Points: Adding focal points throughout the property helps to direct the eye and draw attention to specific areas of interest. This can include a garden bed, a statue, a water feature, or even a fire pit.
Functionality: Every element in the landscape should serve a purpose. Is there seating for relaxation? Is there a path for easy access?
Seasonal Interest: Incorporate plants and elements that provide year-round appeal. Evergreens, bulbs for spring blooms, and interesting winter structures add variety.
Maintenance Level: Consider how much time and effort you will put into upkeep. Choose plants and features that match your comfort level.

These design principles help create a beautiful landscape that will appeal to buyers. While most of these principles can be applied independently, if you need help executing them, it’s best to consult a professional landscaping company.

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Practical Tips for Designing a Cohesive Landscape

If you go the DIY route, keep the following design tips in mind:

Consider the Home’s Architecture: The landscape should complement the style of the house.
Use Repeating Elements: Incorporate similar plants, colors, or materials to create unity.
Create Different Zones: Designate areas for specific functions like seating, gardening, or play.
Think About Scale and Proportion: Ensure plants and features don’t overpower the house.
Consider the View from the Street: What will potential buyers see first?

Applying Design Principles

With the tips above, you can create a beautiful landscape that will complement your home and help it stand out from the rest of the homes on the market. Your approach will largely depend on the style of your home and the level of care you are willing to put into upkeep.

For example, a traditional-style home might benefit from a symmetrical front yard design. Repeating elements like matching pavers and hydrangea bushes create a sense of balance and unity between the hardscape and landscape. This approach aligns with the classic, timeless aesthetic of traditional architecture.

On the other hand, a modern home could showcase an asymmetrical front yard layout. A bold focal point, such as a sleek, contemporary water feature or striking sculpture, breaks the symmetry and adds visual interest. This design approach complements the minimalist, forward-thinking style often associated with modern homes.

Make a Lasting Impression with These 5 Curb Appeal Landscaping Ideas

You must pay attention to your home’s curb appeal. The competition in the real estate market is fierce. These five landscaping ideas will give your property the visual appeal it needs to stand out and attract potential buyers:

1. Enhance Your Curb Appeal with Colorful Flower Beds

Choose vibrant flowers to add a pop of color and visual interest. Opt for perennials for year-round color or annuals for seasonal variety. Think about height and texture by mixing tall plants with low-growing ones and incorporating plants with different leaf textures. Of course, don’t forget to prune your plants regularly to keep them looking their best.

Decide whether you want a more structured, traditional flower bed or a more relaxed, cottage-garden style. Plant flowers on either side of the entrance to create a welcoming focal point.

2. Add Eye-Catching Hardscape Elements to Your Home’s Exterior

Consider brick, stone, or concrete pavers for a polished pathway. A winding or curved path can add interest. Opt for materials that complement your home’s exterior for a cohesive look.

A fire pit or outdoor kitchen can make the space more functional. For a unique feature, incorporate seating into the wall design. While more involved, a small fountain or pond can add much visual interest and tranquility.

3. Include Serene Elemental Pieces in Your Landscape Design

Incorporate unique outdoor features to make your landscape design stand out. Consider a small, contemporary fountain or a unique water garden with aquatic plants and stones for a serene feel.

Opt for a sleek, modern fire pit or a whimsical outdoor fireplace with a rustic charm to provide a focal point. Add architectural interest with a distinctive trellis, archway, or pergola. These elements will create a more engaging and memorable outdoor space.

4. Illuminate Your Curb Appeal with Outdoor Lighting

Highlight key features like trees, statues, or unique plants with spotlights to extend their visual interest into the evening. Line your walkway or driveway with lights for safe navigation after dark. Install lights that cast a warm, soft glow to make your home inviting. Consider solar lights for an eco-friendly option.

5. Maximize Limited Space with Vertical Gardens

Train climbing plants like roses, ivy, or morning glories up trellises for a quick way to add height and color. Mount planters on walls or fences to save floor space.

Choose plants that trail over the edge for a soft look. Consider a wall-mounted garden with individual pockets for easy care and a modern aesthetic.

Make the Most of Your Curb Appeal With American Landscape

Nailing your curb appeal landscaping is an important step in selling your home. If you’re looking for inspiration, you can cruise around your neighborhood to see what other home sellers are doing to make their homes stand out.

Or, if you’re ready to get right to work, you can count on the team at American Landscape to help you transform your curb appeal. Our team of landscape designers and installation specialists can help you create the perfect outdoor space to maximize your home’s curb appeal and value.

Want to see how American Landscape can help you improve your curb appeal? Contact us today!