Landscape Basics

You don’t have to be a landscape designer to create a beautiful yard — but you do need to learn the basics of landscaping design. Take the mystery out of laying out your flowerbeds and borders with easy tips, and discover tips and tricks for dealing with your yard’s issues. For example, shade is often one of the hardest garden situations to plan around. But there are beautiful plants, innovative landscape plans, and interesting containers to add to even the most sun-deprived landscapes.

Find perennials, hostas, and annuals that add charm and welcoming color and foliage to your yard. A water feature can be beautiful and calming in any size of landscape. Get inspired with alluring ponds and fountains, find surefire water garden plants, and take a tour through a fantastic water garden makeover. The experts know what it takes to make a great yard, including tips that pay you back, such as enhancing your curb appeal. Before-and-after landscape photos provide you with motivation for your own landscape plans. Do you entertain? Host family? Hate mowing? No matter what your goals — and your needs — there’s a garden plan for you. Plus, you don’t have to spend a lot: You’ll find ways to save money — everything from making your own rain barrel to landscaping on a budget and using salvaged materials.