If you choose links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Were on a mission to inspire and empower you to create your dream home.
New episodes every Wednesday!
Credit:John Pyle | Design: Better Homes & Gardens
She is HGTVs Smart Home 2023 landscape expert, and her work has appeared in magazines likeSouthern LivingandCountry Living.
Carmen Johnston
Start with the landscape plan, and number two, break it down into phases.
Dont think that you have to do everything all at one time.
Number one, check the drainage, check where does the water flow?
Where is the water moving?
Hows the water basically circulating around the house?
And the third year it leaps, meaning you have to have patience in the garden …
I think its so important people know: Let the garden talk to you.
Its OK to Make Mistakes
I think gardening is a lot like cooking.
How many recipes have you made that did not taste very good, but did you quit cooking?
No, you didnt … You have to try things.
Certain things are gonna work out better in an area.
Things are gonna not work well, but just dont give up and keep trying.
I dont want people to, uh, they get so intimidated, and they just quit.
Its an art form.
Its not a science.
Imagine if you jumped in a pool and you did not come up for air.
Its the same thing.
The plant needs air, it needs circulation.
It needs those different things to survive.
So the best tip that I can give is to keep the soil moist to the touch.
And cut the grass if you have grass in the front yard, and mulch.
Thats a really cost-effective way to transform any front yard.
Consider Hiring a Designer
It is an upfront cost.
We are getting a landscape plan so we can save money in the long run.
