Good curb appeal is a plus when selling your home.  In fact, attractive landscaping can add up to 28% overall value to your home. There is a fine line between too much and too little landscaping which could lead to a setback in your home’s appearance. To make sure your landscaping is not a complete disaster, do not make the following mistakes.

Avoid “mulch volcanoes” which are piles of insulating organic matter that come above the trunk of a new tree.  Mulch should be loosely applied so that the soil temperature and moisture can be controlled.  If you pile the mulch and pack it in, it can strangle the roots of the new tree and the root collar will soften.  This will cause rot, a good home for insects and suffocated roots.

Know your plants! Some plants can be harmful and in fact dangerous to your landscaping. Invasive species of plants can overtake your yard. Beware of Bamboo (impossible to control), Mexican feather grass, fountain grasses and pampas grasses.

Always plan ahead.  Poor planning even in landscaping can become a problem. Draw your design out and understand your space allotment.  According to John Crider of Crider Landscaping, “Measurements are key. Like a good carpenter, measure two times and cut once.” Don’t make the rookie mistake of planting too big.  For small areas of your yard, plant flowering perennials and smaller plants. Large shrubs and large foliage often struggle to take root but small foliage take root easily.

If you live in an area that often uses gravel, too much is an eye sore.  These areas usually include places that get little rain. Using gravel in your landscaping does conserve water, but it also soaks in the heat that can damage your plants.  Too much gravel can also harden your soil making it hard to add foliage to the hard-packed area.

Just like any other fake material, if it is installed incorrectly it will look tacky and fake.  Drought-ridden regions often lack grassy areas, so in comes fake grass. The artificial turf of today looks amazingly like real grass. The one rule of thumb is to install it correctly.  Usually an expert is recommended.  If this is going to be a DIY project, you should excavate 3 inches below the finish grade and install sub-base.  The reason for this is simple. Soil expands and contracts with the water intake which can create a wrinkle effect and uneven surface on the lawn.  Chad Vander Veen of Purchase Green Artificial Grass says, “A sub-base will ensure an artificial grass installation will continue to look good for the duration of its 15- to 20-year life.”

Protect your landscaping when under construction.  Many of us are always working on our homes.  If you want to spruce up your home or add an addition, remember your large trees.  Protect them from the construction, especially their roots.  Damage roots can affect a tree for years to come.

Remember good landscaping goes a long way, but can also be a potential for a big disaster.  Always plan ahead and consult an expert if you are unsure on any project you may be embarking on.

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