4 Landscape Design Tips to Try This Summer in the Powell and Worthington, OH Areas

Since many homeowners spent extra time at home last year, the backyard took center stage. Some backyards were up for the job of providing enough usable (and attractive) space for people to hang out in; but some were not. If your landscape is undergoing a renovation this year, here are 4 landscape design tips to try this summer in the Powell and Worthington, OH areas.

Related: 4 LANDSCAPE DESIGN TIPS TO ENHANCE OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES IN DUBLIN, OH

1. Less Grass, More Natives and More Xeriscaping = Less Water, Less Work

One of the biggest trends we see is that homeowners are moving away from large lawns and toward gorgeously landscaped areas filled with colorful native plants that are water-wise and low-maintenance. Lawns require a tremendous amount of effort, water, and chemicals, and they are often underutilized. Unless you’re outsourcing this task, and you need a lush lawn that kids and pets can play on it may make sense to focus instead on the huge variety of plants that thrive in the area. Everything from ground covers to annuals and perennials, ornamental grasses, shrubs, and trees will grace your landscape with gorgeous color variations, fragrance, texture, and even fruits and berries.

Many people think that xeriscaping means a desert-like landscape filled with stones and cacti. However, it simply means using plants that do not require supplemental watering. Since native plants are perfectly adapted to the local conditions, they can withstand them much better than fussy exotics that thrive in different conditions. This means less work for you: more time with family and friends, and less time spent fussing over your landscape.

2. Zoned Outdoor Living

Gone are the days of the old-school concrete slab patio where everything was crammed into a single space. If you wanted to have an alfresco lunch with friends, anyone who wanted some peace and quiet to relax with a book had to go indoors. Today, outdoor living areas are often split into distinct activity zones. Typically this means a central patio which houses the cooking and dining area (high activity); as well as outlying areas that are more geared toward relaxation: a lounge area, and even a separate fire pit area.

This does take up more of the landscape; but ultimately, if you surround this expanded patio with a variety of beautiful native plants, you’ll feel more connected to nature than if “nature” was on the other side of a big lawn. And as scientists are proving, being in nature is good for the soul.

3. Technology

Taking the indoors outside could involve adding a few amenities like a TV or outdoor audio system; and outdoor audio systems, too, take a sophisticated zoned approach that ensures the ideal listening experience wherever you are. No more “turn that down, it’s too loud!” or “turn it up, I can’t hear!”... often at the same time!

4. Eco-Conscious Design

Wildly lush and “unattended” cottage-style landscapes are in. They primarily use native plants and take a decidedly less “tame” approach. Considering the needs of local wildlife and pollinators is a way you can help reduce your eco-footprint. This could mean leaving a portion of your landscape untouched; and if you aren’t a fan of the wild look, this space could be contained behind an attractive retaining wall.

Permeable pavers for your driveway, walkway, and patio are another great eco-friendly addition. Permeable surfaces that allow water to seep into the ground will prevent runoff and will also keep your outdoor living spaces drier.

Related: HOW TO NATURALIZE A LANDSCAPE DESIGN IN WORTHINGTON AND POWELL OH AREAS