Things to Consider When Planning a Garden Layout

Planning a garden layout this spring? A beautiful garden makes a beautiful home! Here are a few things to think about before you get started.

A good plan is the first thing in making a flourishing garden. Whether you are interested in completely redesigning your garden landscape or simply making a few changes, there are important things to consider when planning your garden layout.

Put down your purpose 

You need to ask yourself why you want to have a garden. Some of the reasons may include to; showcase plants and flowers, read outdoors, playing ground, a walk-through with colourful flowers, or a place to set a coffee table. Knowing the purpose helps you to determine how the end harvest should look like. Think about the types of flowers, vegetables, fruit trees, herbs, or shrubs that you would like to grow in your garden. Wherever your preferences lie, proper layout planning is essential to getting the most out of it. 

Know your yard 

You need to think about your regional climate, topography, and your soil type when planning the garden layout. It’s possible to check your zone’s climate and other factors from Ontario Plant Hardiness Zone Map. Keep in mind that specific conditions of your yard are likely to create a microclimate based on the amount of sun and shade exposure. Also, take note of how water drains in your landscape. 

Growing season 

Temperatures and their duration usually determine the growing season in your area. Understanding this is important in deciding whether to start the seed germination process indoors well before the snow melts and freezes or buy plants that are well on their way from local garden stores. At Lawn Troopers, we help you to identify the growing season in your area and choose the best plants suitable for that region.  

Soil and water 

Soil and water are important factors when planning a garden layout. Plant roots will readily spread through soft soil. This means that you need soil that is rich in nutrients, has good aeration properties and porosity. Conducive soil will allow deep root growth, making your plants strong and facilitate their growth.

Consider water availability in the intended garden location. Make sure you can run a hosepipe to your garden site, so you don’t necessarily need to lug water to the garden every time your plants require watering. Watering your plants regularly ensures that the soil is moist enough for proper plant growth. 

Natural Predators  

Your garden should be located in an area where nothing can damage them. Some of the natural predators include animals, wind, or even your kids. The garden should be inaccessible to animals and children. Animals can eat your plants and cause devastating damage to them. Kids can also pull out the plants playfully. The garden should be situated in an area where the wind can’t destroy young plants or pollinate unwanted weeds. In planning the layout, consider a safe location for your garden. 

Planning a garden layout can be fun, but if you are unsure where to start, consider enlisting us! If you are in need of a professional gardener this spring, feel free to contact us for a quote.