We all want a yard that looks great throughout the year. While you might think achieving stunning, year-round curb appeal in Howard County and the surrounding areas requires constant hard work, a few key secrets can make all the difference. At Absolute Landscapes, our team can help you apply these proven concepts to your property. From the harsh winters to the heat of summer, a little planning is all it takes to ensure your home looks its best, no matter the season.
The Secrets to Lasting Beauty
The biggest secret to a beautiful landscape is using simple, effective concepts that have stood the test of time.
- Utilize Native Plants: One of the best ways to ensure year-round appeal is to incorporate native plants and local materials into your landscape design. While tropical plants may look beautiful in the summer, they often struggle and may not survive Maryland’s colder months. Native plants, however, are adapted to our climate and will thrive year-round. For more information on which plants work best, the University of Maryland Extension offers a great guide.
- Embrace the Power of Three: In design, grouping items in threes creates a sense of balance and visual appeal. For example, placing three potted plants on either side of your entryway makes a symmetrical and welcoming statement. This simple rule can be applied to shrubs, decorative stones, and other elements.
- Perform Simple Maintenance: A little upkeep goes a long way. Keeping walkways clean, watering plants regularly, and removing weeds are small tasks that have a major impact on your property’s overall appearance.
Hardscaping Elements Offer Timeless Elegance
Hardscaping elements, whether natural stone or man-made materials like retaining walls and walkways, provide a constant, visually appealing structure regardless of the season. These features require minimal maintenance and add lasting value. Outdoor lighting is another crucial element, complementing your landscape design while providing necessary light for navigating your property at night. According to the National Association of Landscape Professionals, well-designed lighting can dramatically enhance both the beauty and safety of your home.
While landscaping offers nearly unlimited opportunities, applying these simple secrets will ensure your property in Howard County and the surrounding areas has beautiful curb appeal throughout the year.
Ready to transform your property with a landscape design that looks great in every season? Contact the experts at Absolute Landscapes today to schedule a consultation and bring your vision to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best low-maintenance plants for year-round curb appeal in Maryland? For year-round interest, consider evergreens like Boxwood or Holly for structure, and add seasonal color with perennials such as Black-Eyed Susans and Coneflowers. Native grasses also provide texture and movement throughout the seasons with minimal upkeep.
How can hardscaping improve my home’s value? Professionally designed hardscaping, such as patios, retaining walls, and walkways, expands your outdoor living space and enhances functionality. These durable features are highly sought after by homebuyers and can provide a significant return on investment by boosting your property’s overall value and curb appeal.
How can I ensure my landscape looks good in winter? Focus on “winter interest” by incorporating elements that stand out in the colder months. This includes evergreens for year-round color, trees with interesting bark like River Birches, and hardscaping features like stone walls or a fire pit that add structure and a focal point to the landscape.