Sara Bendrick

To plan front yard landscaping, start with a site analysis of sunlight, shade, soil type, and drainage, then measure your property and draw a base map to scale on graph paper. Decide what the space must do before you decide how it should look, because the walkway, driveway, and entry approach control everything else. Match

To design a front yard landscape, measure the property first and sketch a scaled base map showing the house, driveway, walkway, meter boxes and any underground utility lines. Study sun exposure, soil type, drainage and your USDA hardiness zone before choosing a single plant. Divide the space into zones, settle the hardscape, then layer the

The right way is not as complicated as it seems, but it does require one fundamental principle above all else, sequence matters more than anything else. You must assess first, plan second, prepare third, and plant last. This is not optional. Most homeowners reverse this order entirely. They visit a garden center, fall in love