For generations, Americans’ yard landscapes have been dominated by lawns — neat, weed-free carpets of emerald green. But as drought, insect population declines and other environmental issues rise to prominence, some homeowners are turning away from the pristine lawn.

Home owners can change the way their yards look by adding water elements, utilizing natural bits of beauty and more.

Adding Texture and Shape

There are many ways to add texture and shape to a lawn. Some are easy to do and others may require a professional landscaper’s touch. For instance, adding a slight slope in a lawn that didn’t have one before is an attractive way to add interest. It also makes mowing easier and safer.

Another way to add texture is by using plants with different foliage shapes and colors. The bold flowers of hibiscus, poinciana and tropical crotons can bring beautiful color to the landscape. The large leaves of plants like the southern magnolia, yaupon holly and fatsia provide bold texture for your yard. The fine, needle-like leaves of juniper, cedar, yews and Japanese plum yew can also add texture.

Some people try to add interest to their landscape by creating wavy borders around flower beds or on their lawns. However, these curves can look contrived and fussy. They can also be difficult to cut and will become unkempt in the long run.

A more subtle way to add shape is by incorporating hardscapes and other structures in the garden. The right patio, walkway or retaining wall can be an attractive addition to a landscape that already features beautiful plants and trees. Similarly, water features can create a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for outdoor living. They can even attract birds and other wildlife to your home grounds.

Adding Water Elements

Water elements are a beautiful way to add beauty and charm to your lawn. They come in a variety of styles, from classic to modern. You can choose from fountains, ponds, waterfalls, water spouts, or even just simple birdbaths. The sound of water flowing creates a serene and peaceful ambiance. It can mask any unwanted background noise and create a relaxing environment for you and your guests to enjoy.

Depending on your preferences, you can also decide how much noise you would like the feature to make. The roar of cascading water from a waterfall can be dramatic and invigorating, while the gentle trickle of a fountain will be soothing and contemplative. You can also add a gazebo, decorative rocks, statuary, or plants to your lawn to create an outdoor paradise.

You can also use the natural features of your landscape as a backdrop for other activities, such as hosting weekend barbecues with friends and family. Adding a water element to your landscape can enhance the experience of entertaining guests and creating memories for your family and loved ones.

In addition to the visual appeal, water features can offer several environmental and health benefits. They can reduce noise pollution, improve air quality, and attract wildlife. They also provide a place for kids to play, relax, and learn about nature. They can also help to alleviate stress, reduce the risk of heart disease, and promote better sleep.

When choosing a water element, it is important to consider the size of your landscape and the overall aesthetics. You should also consider how the water feature will be used, such as for swimming, attracting wildlife, or simply as a decorative element. You can even convert your lawn to a garden and plant drought-friendly plants.

If you are interested in transforming your lawn into a masterpiece, contact Eden today. Our team of professionals will help you transform your backyard into a relaxing oasis. We can also design a custom water feature to fit your needs and budget. Call us to get started! We look forward to hearing from you!

Adding Natural Bits of Beauty

When you look at a landscape in a natural setting, it is easy to find bits of beauty that may not be apparent. A rocky slope may need to stay just as it is, instead of leveling it, and can be enhanced with rock outcroppings or even an old tree stump that can be hollowed out and filled with soil and flowers for a unique and beautiful addition to your yard. Even a stylized lawn can be made beautiful by adding elements that add a bit of visual interest. For example, a homeowner who admires the abstract, geometric paintings of Piet Mondrian might enjoy a lawn with straight rows of flower beds that contrast or complement each other.

Adding Artificial Elements

One of the best things about being a homeowner is that you can choose how to make your home grounds uniquely yours. Some homeowners want to level hills for safety or create a spacious lawn that allows for family play and relaxing. Others may be drawn to a geometric design that reminds them of the work of artist Piet Mondrian.

Adding artificial elements can bring your landscape together in beautiful ways. For instance, old tree stumps can be hollowed out and filled with potting soil to become unique flower pots. A wind chime or bird bath can add soothing sounds and encourage local wildlife to visit your yard.