Intro:
Before you begin
Step 1:
Survey the property
Step 2:
Draw your existing property
Step 3:
Note all concerns
Step 4:
Research and dream
Step 5:
Finalize your plans and dig in

2torial #0930:
Learn2 Draw a Landscape Map

How does your garden grow?

Maybe the kids have left for college and you're eyeing that old sandbox as a possible new vegetable garden. Or maybe you just can't escape those prying eyes from next door. Whatever the case, creating a landscape plan can dramatically change the way you look at--and use--your yard. It can be as simple as adding a new patio or flowerbed, or as detailed as starting over with a new design and function. We'll show you how to make a plan that works for you, your needs, and (if necessary) your neighbors.

It's best to have lived a full year in your location before making any drastic changes to landscaping. Since many plants and structures are installed to combat particular seasonal circumstances, removing them without knowing what they're combating can be disastrous down the road. Additionally, some plants only prosper and bloom during certain seasons. That old, dead weed may become a gorgeous highlight to your view come summer.

If you plan to drastically change any landscaping elements that could affect your neighbors, let them know before you begin. This includes rerouting a natural creek or stream, removing a tree whose roots or branches may infringe on their property, or replacing fences and walls on your mutual property line.

Finally, always check with your local planning commission. Most require permits before you begin any extensive building (and have specific rules about allowable placement, height, and even materials). Some also have regulations about tree removal. It's better to know what's allowed before you make plans.

Survey the property

Once you've decided it's time for a change, you need to consider what you want from your new yard. More privacy? Brighter colors? Maybe an outdoor entertaining area? Take a slow walk around your property and objectively consider the existing plants and structures. How well (if at all) will they fulfill your new needs?

Look at photos of your yard taken from various viewpoints and through different seasons. If a certain shrub has just the right flowers but only for one or two seasons, can a complimentary plant carry color through the rest of the year? What about shade and/or privacy trees? Do they leave you exposed in autumn and winter?

Finally, be sure to consider your yard from both outside and inside vantage points. How does your house look to an approaching guest? What's the view from your favorite chair or window?

Once you get a feel for what you want, it's time to start the planning.

Draw your existing property

Use your tape measure to gather the dimensions of your yard, then draw an outline on graph paper. Be sure to make your drawing to scale (for example, 1 inch equals 1 foot) and large enough to fill with written information. If you have an up-to-date property survey, you're ahead of the game. It's still a good idea, though, to double-check all measurements. Once you have the property lines drawn, add the following:

• Your home's exterior, also in scale and positioned accurately on your lot. Mark all windows and doors. Don't forget sheds, garages, playhouses, and other permanent structures.

• Add any existing driveways, patio or deck space, stone or wood pathways, and water sources, whether natural (creeks or ponds) or man-made (faucets and wells).

• Mark any trees or plants you'll be keeping. For trees, mark an area large enough to include the branches' span, not just the trunk's diameter.

• Refer to your local utility company for a map of any cables or pipes that run under your property. Mark these as well.

• Finally, determine compass points and mark them on your map.

Once you've completed this map to your satisfaction, make a few photocopies. Keep one on file for future reference; others will be used in the following steps.

Note all concerns

Now that you have a picture of what stays, it's time to look at what needs to change.

Make a tracing paper overlay of your original map by folding approximately 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) of one edge of tracing paper over one edge of your graph paper. Secure it on the backside of the graph paper with adhesive tape.

On this overlay, mark any drainage problems, privacy concerns, and unsightly views. Designate slopes or uneven ground areas with concentric circles or parallel wave patterns. Also make note of areas of heavy shade and their causes (a wall that can't be moved or a tree that can be pruned, for example).

Use this map-and-overlay set-up for reference as you consider what changes you'll be making.

Research and dream

This is the fun part. Using a photocopied map and a new tracing paper overlay (see Step 2), you can begin to plan your new yard.

Start with generalities. Circle entire areas and designate them "flowers," "privacy trees," "entertainment area," and the like. Refer to your original drawings often, making sure you address the concerns listed on your first overlay (privacy, views, drainage, steep slopes, and so on) in each of your plans.

Draw your options. Sketch various layouts on your photocopy-and-overlay surveys and consider the practicality of each. Browse through garden and landscaping books, magazines, and websites to gather ideas. This is also the time to sketch in any new structures you may be considering, like paths, gazebos, patios, fountains, or barbecue areas.

Get specific. Once you've decided on a basic outline, visit local plant nurseries to see what you like. Use coloring pens to simulate flower beds and spot color you may be planning. Keep in mind watering, sun, and seasonal considerations when making your plant selections (and when positioning them in your yard).

Finalize your plans and dig in

Now's the time to put your plan in motion. Start by setting a priority list. Do you want your front yard finished before the family reunion next month? Or is a backyard play area for the kids more important? Concentrate on one area at a time, and keep each project on a manageable scale.

Is your infrastructure in good working order? Now's the time to check underground waterways, established plant growth, and existing wood or stonework you plan to keep (decks, fountains, storage sheds) for wear and weather damage. Add any repairs that are needed to your work schedule.

Remove all unwanted elements from your work area, then start big. One general rule of thumb: Plant trees first. These usually take the longest to establish roots, and will also offer the biggest and quickest sense of change. New structures and surrounding ground covers come next. Finish with smaller accents like border or bed flowers.

It's said that those who garden believe in the future. And while this building process can take months, if done in a logical succession and at a steady pace, you will always have something new to delight your senses. So enjoy your new yard as it's unfolding, and look forward to the years of gardening pleasure to come.

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