Nov 18, 2022
It's easy to think that landscaping is only a spring and summer activity. But if you're planning on building a new home or recently bought one, fall and winter are the perfect times to start thinking about your landscaping plan. That way, when spring rolls around, you'll be ready to hit the ground running — or rather, planting!
Get a head start on your spring landscaping with these tips from Overstreet Builders!
The Best Time to Plan Your Landscaping
Most people associate landscaping with warmer months, but the colder seasons are the best time of year to start planning your dream outdoor space because:
You Have More Time
Once the hustle and bustle of the holidays dies down, you can sit down and really think about what you want your yard to "say" about your home.
It's Easier to Picture Your Space
When plants and trees are dormant, it's much easier to get a clear idea of the layout of your yard and what features you might want to add:
- Do you need a gazebo for more shade?
- An outdoor fireplace for gatherings?
- A pergola or arbor to add interest and height?
- A water feature to create a calming ambiance?
- Will you need to remove any trees or shrubs to make all your ideas work?
These are just a few of the questions you can answer when you have a "blank canvas" to work with.
You Can Take Your Time
Landscapers are incredibly busy during the spring and summer months. By starting the planning process now, you can take your time finding the right landscaping contractor and get a jump on the scheduling.
You Can Start Planning Your Budget
Just like with any home improvement project, landscaping can get expensive. Planning ahead means you can save or budget for the big-ticket items you really want.
Your Plants Will Thank You
Spring is generally the best time to plant. By planning a list of what you want now, you can get a head start on locating and ordering the vegetation you'll need (especially those hard-to-find or rare species).
4 Ideas for Landscaping Your New Home
Now that you know why the chilly seasons are the best time to start planning your landscaping, here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Add privacy
Our Signature Neighborhoods are designed to provide homeowners with plenty of space and privacy. But if you want even more, consider planting a row of evergreen trees or shrubs along your property line. This provides additional privacy and extra curb appeal.
2.Incorporate hardscaping features
Consider adding hardscaping features to your landscape design. A stone walkway or patio is a great way to add interest and functionality to your outdoor space.
3. Bring color into your yard
Just because it's cold outside doesn't mean your yard has to be boring! There are plenty of flowers and plants that bloom throughout the year. Consider adding some perennials for winter interest that grow well in the Chicago area.
4. Create an outdoor living space
Outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and covered patios are just a few of the ways you can extend your living space beyond the walls of your home and enjoy the outdoors year round. These features can also add value to your property!
Landscaping Tips for a New Construction Home
If you're one of the lucky few who are in the process of building a new home, congratulations! Here are a few things to consider before you start landscaping your new property:
The location of your home on the lot
Take a look at where the sun hits your property throughout the day and think about how you can use that to your advantage.
Work with your builder to create a landscape plan
If you're working with a custom home builder, they should be able to help you create a landscape plan that fits your needs and budget.
If you're working with a production builder, they may already have a landscape package that you can choose from (here are 5 reasons why we recommend going custom).
Either way, it's important to have a plan in place before construction begins so that the proper infrastructure can be put in place.
Consider the climate
In the Chicago suburbs, we experience all four seasons (sometimes all in the same week!). Be sure to take the climate into consideration and choose plants that are native to the area and can withstand our hot summers and cold winters.
And if you're considering a pool or other outdoor features, be sure to factor in the additional maintenance that will be required to keep them in working order year-round.
Don't forget about drainage
Proper drainage is an important part of any landscape design, but it's especially important in areas with heavy rainfall like we experience in the Chicago area.
Work with a professional to ensure that your landscaping plan includes adequate drainage so that you don't end up with water pooling in your yard after a rainstorm.
Irrigation is a must!
Hand watering is time-consuming and difficult to keep up with, especially if you have a large yard. An irrigation system will help ensure that your plants get the water they need without you having to lift a finger!
With these landscaping tips, your friends and family will be begging you to host all sorts of gatherings in your beautiful yard!
Ready to build your luxury dream home in the Chicago suburbs? Contact our team today and we’ll make your vision come to life.