Landscaping can transform your home, making it more inviting and enjoyable. A well-designed yard not only boosts curb appeal but also provides a functional outdoor space. However, many homeowners make mistakes that lead to unnecessary maintenance, costly repairs, and even structural damage.
The good news? Most of these mistakes are avoidable with a little planning. Whether you’re starting a new landscaping project or maintaining an existing one, knowing what not to do can save time and money.
Let’s go over some of the most common landscaping mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Poor Drainage Can Ruin Your Landscape
Water management is often overlooked in landscaping, yet it plays a crucial role in maintaining a stable and healthy outdoor space. Poor drainage can lead to standing water in low areas, causing soil erosion, damaging plants, and even affecting your home’s foundation.
One common issue resulting from improper drainage is a leaning retaining wall. When excess water accumulates behind a retaining wall without a proper outlet, it creates pressure that pushes against the structure. Over time, this can cause the wall to shift, tilt, or even collapse. To fix a leaning retaining wall, it’s important to resolve drainage problems first. Adding weep holes, using gravel as backfill, or installing anchors can help stabilize the structure. If the leaning is severe, it may require professional intervention.
To keep drainage problems at bay, ensure your yard is graded correctly so that water flows away from important structures. Solutions like French drains, dry creek beds, or strategically placed gutters can effectively channel excess water and prevent future damage.
2. Choosing the Wrong Plants for Your Climate
Many homeowners select plants based on looks rather than their ability to thrive in the local climate. This mistake leads to struggling plants, excessive watering, and wasted money.
Before planting, check your USDA hardiness zone. Choose native or climate-adapted plants that require minimal watering and maintenance. If you live in a dry area, opt for drought-resistant plants like lavender, succulents, or ornamental grasses. In humid climates, look for plants that can withstand moisture without developing fungal diseases.
A little research goes a long way in ensuring your landscape remains healthy and low-maintenance.
3. Overcrowding Plants and Trees
It’s easy to underestimate how much space plants will need as they grow. Placing them too close together may look fine at first, but over time, they compete for sunlight, water, and nutrients.
Overcrowded plants can become weak and susceptible to disease. Trees planted too close to a house can also cause problems as their roots spread, potentially damaging your foundation, driveway, or underground pipes.
To avoid this, always follow recommended spacing guidelines. If a plant label says it needs six feet of space, don’t squeeze it into a three-foot area. Giving plants room to grow will ensure they stay healthy and look better in the long run.
4. Ignoring Mulch or Using It Incorrectly
Mulch plays a crucial role in landscaping by retaining moisture, preventing weeds, and regulating soil temperature. However, improper use can harm plants instead of helping them.
One common mistake is creating a mulch volcano—piling mulch against tree trunks or plant stems. This traps moisture against the bark, leading to rot and disease. Instead, apply a thin, even layer of mulch, leaving a small gap around the base of each plant.
Choosing the right mulch is also important. Organic mulches, like wood chips and bark, break down over time and enrich the soil. Inorganic mulches, like gravel or rubber, don’t decompose, making them better suited for decorative areas.
5. Not Planning for Maintenance
A beautiful landscape doesn’t stay that way on its own. Many homeowners plant gardens that require too much upkeep for their lifestyle.
Some plants need frequent pruning, while others require weekly watering. Lawns must be mowed, fertilized, and aerated. Hardscaping features, like patios and retaining walls, also need regular inspections.
Before starting a landscaping project, consider how much maintenance you’re willing to do. If you prefer a low-maintenance yard, choose drought-resistant plants, artificial turf, or slow-growing shrubs. Automated irrigation systems can also reduce watering tasks.
6. Overlooking Seasonal Changes
A yard that looks great in summer but dull in winter isn’t ideal. Many homeowners forget to plan for all seasons, leaving their landscape bare for part of the year.
To create year-round appeal, include a mix of evergreens, flowering perennials, and fall foliage plants. Evergreens provide greenery in winter, while spring and summer blooms add color. Ornamental grasses and winterberry shrubs offer texture even in colder months.
A well-planned landscape should be visually appealing throughout the year.
7. Forgetting About Walkways and Paths
Many homeowners focus on lawns and gardens but forget about paths and walkways. Without clear walkways, people often create accidental footpaths, damaging grass and compacting soil.
Adding paved paths, stepping stones, or gravel walkways makes your landscape more functional. These paths guide foot traffic, prevent soil erosion, and add a decorative touch to your yard.
8. Using Too Many Decorative Elements
Decorative items, like garden gnomes, fountains, and statues, can enhance a landscape. But too many can make a yard look cluttered rather than stylish.
A good rule of thumb is to keep it simple. Choose a few statement pieces that complement your garden rather than overcrowding the space. A single birdbath, a well-placed bench, or a carefully selected sculpture can add charm without overwhelming the landscape.
9. Failing to Test and Amend Soil
Healthy plants start with healthy soil. Many homeowners plant flowers, shrubs, and trees without testing their soil, leading to poor growth and unnecessary fertilization.
A soil test can reveal pH levels, nutrient deficiencies, and soil type. Simple test kits are available at garden centers. If your soil lacks nutrients, amend it with compost, lime, or organic fertilizers before planting.
Improving soil quality before planting will result in stronger, healthier plants.
A well-planned landscape adds beauty and value to your home. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll save money, reduce maintenance, and create a space that’s both functional and visually appealing. Whether you’re improving drainage, selecting the right plants, or fixing a leaning retaining wall, a little planning goes a long way.
Taking the time to do things right the first time will ensure that your landscape remains healthy and enjoyable for years to come.