Landscape Design FAQs

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Landscaping Services in Boise, Idaho and Pleasant Grove, Utah.

 

I have heard curb appeal increases the value of my home. What is curb appeal?

Curb appeal is the attractiveness of your home or business’s exterior when viewed from the street. Curb appeal sets the tone for your entire home or business.  People will associate the inside with what they see on the outside.  Your curb appeal gives an immediate first impression and may be a determining factor to get a potential customer or buyer.

Curb appeal can be achieved with a beautifully designed and maintained landscape.  Beautiful landscaping will make your property stand out, give it POP and make people want to take another look.  Curb appeal is achieved in your landscaping with balance, line flow and color.  A good designer will incorporate all of these elements into their landscaping plan.

When is the best time of year for landscape installation?

Generally the best time of year for landscape installation is early spring.  However, landscapes can be installed year round as long as weather conditions allow.  In our Boise climate the weather conditions allow us to plant right up until the ground freezes.  The summer months are also okay for planting as long as it’s not too hot.  Even in the heat, with proper care and watering, plant installation can be successful.  Set an appointment with a qualified landscape contractor to discuss your needs. 

What is the best way to screen out my neighbor?

I use two trees most often to provide coverage and privacy.  Arborvitae and Junipers are the best trees to plant if you want to screen out a neighbor, create privacy or hide unsightly views. 

It’s a good idea to plant the entire screen at the same time so that it remains uniform in appearance throughout growth.  Be aware of how wide your plants will get as they grow so you give them enough room when planting.  Check for drainage and sunlight needs, as well, as these will determine the health of your plants.

What is hardscaping?

In landscape or garden design, hardscape refers to the hard or solid areas in the outdoor space. These “hard” areas may be made of materials like concrete, wood, flagstone, pea gravel, rocks, pebbles, etc. Planters and pots are considered part of hardscaping, but the plants inside them are "softscape."

Examples of hardscaping includes patios, decks, verandas, arbors, gazebos, trellises, balconies, terraces, porches, rooftops, courtyards, walls, fountains, ponds, pools, spas, hot tubs, etc.

Hardscapes add beauty, variety, texture, and function to your landscape.  A good landscape design will include both hardscapes and softscapes (living plant materials) .

Why should I hire a landscaper?

If you want professional results, it's usually best to hire a professional. When it comes to landscaping, there are so many factors that most people just aren't aware of or knowledgeable about that can really make or break your landscape. Professional landscapers have the expertise on what species and varieties of plants will best suit your particular application - from your climate, soil type, land grading, maintenance and irrigation requirements. Using our professional expertise can help save you time, money and headaches from doing it incorrectly.

Notes of Interest

Landscape Blog

Visit our Blog:

"Stamping the Soil"
A Landscaper's Footprint