First Impressions: Landscaping for New Construction Homes

There are a few settings in which a true ground-up landscape design will be necessary, and new home construction is one of the most common. What should you be thinking about when considering landscaping for your new construction home, and how can a landscaping company help?

At Wright Landscaping, we’re proud to serve as the top landscaping company across Salt Lake City, Kaysville, Layton and nearby parts of Utah. Our landscapers offer a wide range of landscaping services, including landscape design and build solutions of any kind – new construction homes among them. Here are some tips and approaches to consider when it comes to landscaping for your new construction home, plus some basics on how our landscapers can help.

Assessing Your Available Space

As you’re getting ready to start landscaping your new construction home, the first thing you should do is take a good look at what kind of space you have available. This will help inform the types of plants and features that can be incorporated into your landscape design.

One important consideration is the size of your lot. Smaller lots may require more creative solutions for maximizing space and creating an inviting outdoor area. You should also consider any existing trees or natural elements on your property, as these can be incorporated into the design or taken into account when planning other features.

Additionally, think about how you want to use your outdoor space – whether it’s for entertaining, relaxation, or both. This will help guide decisions on what features and amenities to include.

Climate and Weather Considerations

Another important aspect to consider is the climate and weather in your area. This can impact the type of materials used, as well as the design of your outdoor space. For example, if you live in a hot and sunny area, you may want to incorporate shade structures or plants that provide natural shade. If you experience colder temperatures, incorporating features such as fire pits or outdoor heaters can extend the usability of your outdoor area throughout the year.

Check Soil and Slope Factors

During the planning process, it is also important to assess the soil and slope of your outdoor space. This can have a significant impact on the stability and longevity of your design. If your outdoor area has a steep slope, you may need to consider adding retaining walls or terracing to create flat surfaces for seating or plants. This can also help with drainage and prevent erosion.

In terms of soil, it is important to understand its composition and drainage capabilities. Soil that retains too much moisture can cause issues such as mold growth or damage to structures over time. A professional assessment can help determine if any special measures need to be taken in regards to the soil.

Choosing Ideal Plants

Once you have an understanding of your outdoor space and its limitations, it is time to choose the perfect plants for your landscape. Consider factors such as climate, sunlight exposure, and maintenance requirements when selecting plants. Native plants are often a great option as they are more adapted to the local environment and require less upkeep.

It’s also important to think about how different plants will interact with each other in terms of growth patterns. Some may compete for resources while others may complement each other’s growth. Researching plant varieties and their characteristics can help create a harmonious garden space.

Adding Hardscaping

In addition to plants, incorporating hardscaping elements into your landscape design can add structure and functionality to your garden. Hardscaping refers to any non-living features in a landscape, such as pathways, patios, retaining walls, and water features.

Hardscaping can provide a sense of organization and define different areas within your garden. For example, a pathway can guide visitors through the space while also preventing trampling on delicate plants. A patio or seating area can serve as a gathering place for outdoor dining or relaxation.

DIY Vs. Professional Tasks

In many cases, homeowners may be tempted to tackle hardscaping projects on their own in order to save money. However, it’s important to consider the complexity and potential risks involved before deciding whether to DIY or hire a professional.

Some hardscaping tasks, such as building retaining walls or installing water features, require specialized knowledge and equipment. Attempting these tasks without proper training can lead to costly mistakes and even safety hazards.

On the other hand, simpler tasks like laying pavers for a pathway or creating a small garden bed may be suitable for a DIY project. Before starting any hardscaping project, it’s important to carefully assess your skills and capabilities.

At Wright Landscaping, our landscapers are here to help with any kind of need for new home landscaping. Contact us today to learn about any of our landscaping services around SLC, Layton, Kaysville or nearby areas!