What makes up a gorgeous landscape in drought-like conditions? So much more than you think. The lack of water from above doesn’t mean your precious landscape has to look bad. Plant material makes up only a fraction of the overall picture. In Greensboro, NC and other surrounding areas we have many elements for breathtaking landscapes. There is the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors for a good part of the year because of the mild climate.
Beautiful landscapes may include:
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Your gorgeous home
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Stone/brick walls, walkways, patios, terraces, courtyards
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Water fountains, ponds, streams
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Pools
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Fireplaces
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Kitchenettes
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Statuary, garden art, antique show pieces
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Birdbaths and birdhouses
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Natural areas
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Carparks-this is an area constructed of stone or pea gravel providing extra parking by incorporating directly into your garden for a wonderful transition.
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Crisp bed-lines delineating planting beds-this very easy to do task creates beautiful contrast between the 2 areas
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Fresh hardwood mulch, pine needles, or mini nuggets-there is nothing like newly laid mulch rich in color to dress up the most drab landscapes. Make sure there’s plenty of dark and rich composted topsoil under this.
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Wooden pergolas, decks, arbors, porches or fencing
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Outdoor furniture
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Plants and grass
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Low-level lighting
I am not including every element, but you get the idea. Many pieces make up the landscape and plants serve to soften and unify the space with their wonderful properties. If we happen to enter another drought-like season in 2008, lets get to work on all of these other pieces of your landscape first.
Beautiful landscapes are not built in a day, so take your time to think about all the elements working together. Your goal is making your neighbors’ gaze in awe of your garden.
Happy Planting!
Diana Gardner-Williams www.greensborogardens.wordpress.com
Landscape Design and Installation
