|
You can have the most elaborate, beautiful yard in your neighborhood, but if it's not functional, than what good is it? We all want to have beautiful, flourishing gardens, but when you have a family, you must keep the family's needs in mind. Divide your yard area into two or three visual spaces: one area for play and recreation and the other area for the garden.
An open grassy area for play is ideal and usually adjacent to the main patio area. If you don't wish to install or don't have the money to install a modern wood deck, consider purchasing several 3 foot by 3 foot cement squares and lining them up to form a patio area. The cost is much less than a deck and still functions perfectly for your picnic table and tables.
Do you have a fireplace? Set aside a portion of the yard for collecting firewood and timber, and ensure it is far enough from your home as to not attract rodents and other yard pests.
What about your pets? Have you considered an area for them to exercise as well? Ensure that you have a piece of the yard set aside for the pet's headquarters before you plant your expensive shrubs! Dogs and cats tend to be drawn to exactly that which we want them to keep away from!
Keep the public eye away from your personal life! Before you landscape, consider where you will be putting your trash cans and recycling. Do you really want to plant that beautiful Japanese Maple right next to the newspaper recycling bins? Consider instead a high row of inexpensive shrubs to hide those garbage pails from your neighbors!
Functionality is key to enjoying your yard, so before you plant, make sure you keep the kids, the pets and the family's belongings in mind! Separate an area for just yourself to plant and grow, and give the kids the running room they need!
| 
