TierramadreLandscape.com

with ornamental plants

Although the term "ornamental plants" is open to interpretation, topiary, in particular Japanese, could be an if not THE answer.
O-karikomi, (topiary technique of clipping shrubs and trees into large curved shapes or sculptures) combined with Hako-zukuri (shrubs clipped into boxes and straight lines).
Have a look at the link below to see some examples.

2009-08-08 14:42:10 by Saleem

mikesbackyardnursery.com -- Landscape design tips to help you transform your boring yard into a beautifully designed work of art!

I need sugestions for flowers that do not need a lot of tending and a design that would look nice all summer.

There are often strict restrictions as to what can be done on the plot. if this is a private burial ground, I suggest day lillies, black eyed susans for fullsunlight, hostas for some shade; Depending on where you live, you could enjoy a longer blooming season by planting Dianthus varieties. None of the above will require much care - the lillies and BE susans will require thinning every 3-5 years.
You may want to consider an evergreen like blue rug juniper - not much for blooms but nice in the winter as well.

2006-05-23 11:18:23 by misschivaho

Arranging a yard to get the best use of space. It also includes what kind of plant life could work in that area (making the run off water head to a plant that might need more water...).

2007-06-12 12:33:18 by Adam P

We have concrete planters in our backyard that are constructed with tan split face blocks. However, we are going to get a wall that will be shared with a neighbor, who prefers gray. Do you think gray and tan blocks can be mixed and still look like a well designed backyard, or should we try to ask our neighbor he he will compromise with a tan wall to match our planters?
Thanks for any help!!

I have done masonry, hadscaping for almost 7 years now, (dont mind the username) i would recomend doing a double course wall, which in fact would make it possible for both of you to get your way, your neighbors side would b e gray and yours tan, its quite simple actually considering most walls should be double wide to last . the problem would be after that the Cap stones, but honestly u can pick a different than the two color on a compromise, or stager every other, Which isnt that bad, considering hardscaping is an art, its personal preference. so if you can picture it... bottom course is gonna be two blocks wide... the finished face on ur side is tan, and the finshed side on ur neighbors gray, build from there... and for the face of the wall in the front do one and in the back do the other so they fit together like L's but make the one in the front the same color as the wall would be visible from the street, or source of view for the passing eye. if you have any questions, please feel free to send me a message with ur email, and i can contact u on a more reliable source.. thank you and hope this was helpfull

2009-04-24 09:41:55 by Barbie J

I see a lot of books on designing large gardens, but we live in California and have a very small back yard that we'd like to liven up (right now it's just mulch). Is it worth hiring a contractor? Is there good landscape design software we could use to help do it on our own?

HGTV offers an online tutorial.

If you are cramped for space. I'd plant vertically...Tall, skinny shrubs, climbing plants, hang baskets from fence, house, etc. Save all the ground space you have for you to move around in and enjoy. Potted plants offer lots of versatility. If you get tired of where they are or need that space later, just move them.

P.S. Keep the mulch away from the foundation of the house. It give bugs easier access to basements and crawlspaces.

2006-11-21 10:26:33 by JS