The sun is shining! Now is the perfect time for parks, picnics… and planting. Landscaping your home is one of the best ways to get some fresh air and create the ambience you want.
Benefits of Landscaping
CREATES CURB APPEAL – Beautiful design makes your home appear welcoming and enjoyable.
INCREASE THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME – Landscaping produces a more desirable home.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY – Large deciduous trees planted on the east, west, and northwest sides of your home create shade from the sun and privacy to your home while also decreasing air conditioning costs by up to 35%.
ENJOYING NATURE – Creating natural habitats allows space for birds and wildlife to be enjoyed.
OUTDOOR LIVING – Your yard can quickly become an enjoyable place to hang out with friends and family.
Construct a Great Landscape:
CREATE A FOCAL POINT
Creating a focal point helps you narrow down your options. Pick a tree, plant, or hardscape that you want to center your landscaping around.
TREES – Trees provide many benefits for your home.
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Aesthetics – a Chinese Magnolia or a Cherry Plum sprout gorgeous flowers while also emitting a fruity and pleasing aroma that anyone around you can enjoy. Or choose a Dogwood that flowers pink and white in the spring then turns to a deep red in the summer and fall.
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Shade and Privacy Trees – One of the most common trees for this is a Hybrid Poplar because it grows quickly and can withstand the ever-changing weather elements of the Midwest. But there are other options like a Weeping Willow that adds character to any yard or a Ginkgo tree that grows up to 120 ft. tall!
"The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now." – old Chinese proverb
FLOWERS AND GROUND COVER – While trees are beautiful, beneficial, and frame the house, planting colorful flowers and shrubbery give your landscaping different layers and dimensions.
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Bug Repellants – Flowers such as Petunias and Marigolds give your house a splash of color while also repelling beetles, mosquitos, and roaches. If you have a pet, plant some Chrysanthemums and lavender to ward off fleas and ticks.
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Perennials and Annuals – If you want to plant flowers and be done, look into perennials which will regrow the next year after winter. Some popular perennials are Peony’s, Daylilies, and Daisies. If you like to switch it up each year, grab some Annuals like gorgeous pink Begonias, lushes Dahlias, or bold frost resistant Pansies.
HARDSCAPES – While plants help beautify your home, hardscapes give it that final touch of personality that make your yard the place to be. Hardscapes can be anything from rocks and boulders, decks, pools, and even water features.
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Rocks & Boulders – Rocks are low maintenance and protect the soil from erosion. Boulders and landscape rock add unique visual interest and can be used to develop levels and paths.
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Decks & Patios – A patio or deck is an investment option in your home. One of the top things a Realtor® will draw attention to when selling a house is outdoor living. Not to mention, you now have extra space to invite your friends and family over for a cookout or just a peaceful place to sit out and enjoy your yard.
Getting your landscape ready now, not only allows you to enjoy the benefits but also puts you ahead of the game when it is time to sell your home. The Realtors® of Mike Thomas Associates are always ready to help you buy or sell your home in North East Indiana. We are here to serve your real estate needs!