Landscaping a Small Yard

Although a small yard may be easy to care for, it can lead to some interesting challenges when trying to detail a landscaping plan. The most important thing about designing a small yard is to make the most of the space. Create a focal point within the small yard. Although the focal point should draw attention, it should not take up more than twenty five percent of the space available in the yard. Some great ideas for this focal point are; a tree that offers lots of coverage, but does not take up a lot of space on the ground, a fountain which will draw in wildlife and birds, or a rock garden that can create a Zen like atmosphere in your small yard space.

Using space in a small yard wisely means that you should use the space in the yard, building up, to your advantage rather than building out towards the edges of the yard. This can be done simply by creating depth with plant holders, potters, trellises and other garden accessories.

Small scale items such as birdbaths can create elegance within the yard, and incorporate wildlife, while promoting birds, and other animals to visit the yard. These small items bring personality, as they are able to incorporate water into the design. These small items may come as a blessing, as larger water element such as ponds require a lot of upkeep and come at a high installation cost.

As with any space, the key to a successful landscaping arrangement is planning. Planning the space will allow the homeowner to take all of the issues into place like lack of space, or area.

Rather than incorporating large scale lawn furniture into a small yard, consider the following alternatives: small chaises and chairs, a hammock, or a bistro set with a small table and two chairs. The bistro set is an elegant choice for small spaces, with just enough table room for two to have a romantic meal, hence the name.

Consider a raised rock garden in the center or the edge of the yard to create a focal point within your small space. Just because the space is small, does not mean that you cannot incorporate different textures like rock and grass. Allowing the rock garden to be raised, and have different levels, makes it appear larger than it is. Using different colors that contrast with the grass, also give the garden a larger look.

Most landscaping plans work around the grass. With your small space, you should be able to make the most of it. Many owners of small spaces are learning to have patches of grass, rather than patches of cement, or decorative stone. These small patches of grass come with easy maintenance, and can be trimmed in a matter of minutes with a small weed whacker, or a pair of shears. Not only is this plan perfect for dry areas that receive very little water, it is perfect if you have pets, that only require a small amount of grass. This plan gives the space an urban feel, and can be made lush and warm with many potted plants.