New Home Owner

Contemporary Twists on Long-Loved Landscapes

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Posted in Yard Care 101

No longer considered "so yesterday," there are front and back yard traditions that are totally back in vogue. And for good reason. Each addresses today's homeowners' hot buttons: time, money and sustainability. Take a minute to consider three favorite twists on tradition. A little bit of retro might be right for you.

  1. The Formal Garden Here's a surprise: A formal garden style doesn't have to be a strain on your time - or look stiff and stuffy. The key? Simplicity. In keeping with modern minimalism, the straight lines and symmetrical plantings typical in formal gardens are easier to keep neat than a more freestyle approach. The use of edging (think brick, wrought iron or wood) also separates flower beds from your lawn, making it less likely you'll take out some buds when mowing the grass. And because plant varietals are kept to a minimum, complicated care is minimized, too. For some great formal garden plans to mimic, visit Garden Gate magazine. You'll see that a formal yard doesn't mean a yawner.
  2. Hardscaping If you'd rather avoid the time and expense of annual planting, hardscaping could be your answer. Hardscaping involves installing nonplant features to add interest, focal points and structure to your landscape. And today there's more to choose from than ever. Check out what's new in fencing, gates, arbors, boulders, stone walks or retaining walls - whatever suits your style and budget. Maybe it's a Buddha to cover a bare spot. It's a one-time investment in dollars and time, so you'll have more of both to enjoy the outdoors.
  3. The Victory Garden A bit of history: During World Wars I and II, U.S. citizens joined together in a grassroots movement to plant vegetable gardens in support of the war efforts. Fast forward to 2009, and you'll see similar pursuits sprouting up in backyards everywhere. But today's Victory Gardeners are responding to contemporary concerns with the environment and global warming. By planting foods that go from your garden to your table, you'll be reducing energy use and pollutants associated with food transport. But don't think this means turning your yard into a cornfield. Just combine your favorite vegetable plants right along with flowers in your beds. Or use containers on your porch, patio or deck. You can even find great recipes for your homegrowns from The Victory Garden. That's one tasty tradition.
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