Newport and Portsmouth, RI are picturesque towns known for their coastal charm and rich history. If you've been thinking your landscape design is due for an upgrade, there's no time like the present to start planning. By getting a jump on your design now, you'll be perfectly poised to debut a fresh look come springtime. Here's how you can get started.
Understand Your Landscape's Potential
Before diving into new plantings or design elements, take a moment to truly understand the current state of your landscape. What are its strengths? Maybe you have a naturally shaded area perfect for a cozy seating nook, or perhaps there's a sunny patch that could be an ideal home for a vibrant planting bed. Recognizing these potentials is the first step to enhancing your space effectively.
Seek Inspiration
As the colder months approach, utilize this time to gather inspiration. Flip through magazines, scour online landscape design platforms, or take a leisurely drive around your neighborhood. By seeing what others have accomplished, you can gather ideas for what might work in your own space. Consider styles that resonate with you, whether that's a rustic cottage style or a sleek modern design, and think about how these can be adapted to fit your unique landscape.
Draft a Plan
While spontaneity has its place, a successful landscape transformation often benefits from a well-thought-out plan. Once you have a clearer vision, sketch out your ideas. You don't need to be an artist; rough outlines that allocate space for different elements can suffice. This draft will serve as a roadmap for your design journey, allowing you to visualize the transformation and ensure you stay on track.
Choose the Right Plantings
Spring is synonymous with rebirth, making it a prime time to introduce new planting life to your landscape. Start by researching plantings that thrive in Rhode Island's climate. Focus on those that will be in full bloom come spring, ensuring a burst of color and life right when you want it. Remember, diversity is key. A mix of perennial and annual plantings can offer varying textures and colors, bringing depth and richness to your design.
Invest in Quality Soil and Mulch
Your plantings' health largely depends on the quality of the soil they're in. If you want them to thrive come spring, ensure they have a nourishing environment from the get-go. Invest in good quality soil and consider enriching it with organic compost for added nutrients. Similarly, mulch can be a game-changer. Not only does it give beds a finished look, but it also helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Consider Structural Elements
While plantings are the life of your landscape, structural elements give it form and character. Think about paths, patios, or retaining walls that can delineate spaces, create flow, or add functionality. For instance, a meandering natural stone walkway can guide visitors through your landscape, showcasing different plantings.
Prioritize Sustainable Practices
Sustainability isn't just a trend; it's a necessity. As you revamp your landscape, think about how you can make it more eco-friendly. This might mean opting for native plantings that require less maintenance, or employing organic practices that forgo harmful chemicals. These choices not only benefit the environment but also create a healthier space for you to enjoy.
Related: Plantings Are Lovely And Functional: Perfect Accents For A Newport Or North Kingstown, RI Landscape
About the Author
Peter Grandin, founder of Grandin Landscape and GrandScapes, has always shown a passion for nature. Even as a young man he started his own lawn maintenance company in grammar school (Pete's Mowing Service). This helped to support his study of horticulture at URI. Peter knew, even in his early years, that there is a perfect combination of the beauty of nature as well as the personalities of people, and that the harmonization of the two would be the driving force for his company's success.
