Landscaping and Lawn Shape - Determining Which Lawn Shape is Right for You

Diversity is the spice of life and when it comes to landscaping your lawn you essentially have four shape options to choose from: circular, rectangular, open and flowing. Each shape offers you and your guests different benefits, so you want to give some thought to which shape is best for your outdoor goals.

Circular Lawn Shape

Choose a circular shaped lawn if you want to present a more formal image to guests. Make sure your circles are perfect, as balance is key here. Circular shapes work best for lawns that are level. In addition to circles, a level lawn also supports half circles or oval shapes. But don't forget to give extra attention to keeping these areas neat and trimmed, removing weeds or other plant growths that will distort the shape.

Rectangular Lawn Shape

If you plan to entertain a lot, you can benefit from the rectangular lawn shape, which presents guests a view from one end to another, unobstructed. This lawn shape doesn't require as much maintenance, limiting the amount of lawn care you will have to do.

Formal gardens stand out with this type of lawn and if you want to invest time in making the lawn look different, at least occasionally, use different mowing patterns to produce a visual appeal. This will provide variety, but only when you really want to have it.

Open Lawn Shape

Entertain your guests with a lawn that is open but not restricted to a specific shape. Allow tree growth in the landscape to dictate your lawn boundaries, having your lawn weave around tree bases. And plant informal flower gardens along the outer edge of your lawn, along with shrubs of varying heights. Your lawn doesn't have to be level to implement this lawn shape.

Flowing Lawn Shape

If you have ample edging available and a penchant for mystery, design your lawn shape in a flowing fashion. An unleveled lawn will add to the mystery, but a level lawn can be made just as intriguing with this shape.

Flowing lawn shapes include paths that cannot be seen in their entirety from one location of the lawn. This adds an air of curiosity about what is just around the corner. Let your lawn path meander, with shrubs and flowers and trees placed at angles and distances that create illusion and mystery.

Resource:

Better Homes and Gardens New Complete Guide to Landscaping: How to Choose a Lawn Shape