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Shade
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What is the movement of the sun, not only during the day,
but at different times of the year? Will some trees have to be
pruned or completely sacrificed, a hedge cut back, a fence moved
to let more light into the garden? |
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Winds
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Where are the prevailing winds from?
Will you need to plant a windbreak such as a hedge? Where
are the sheltered spots of the garden? |
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Water
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Where do you keep your hose? Where are the
water outlets?
Are there water shortages in your area? |
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Upkeep
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How much time are you willing to put into
looking after the garden? How much grass do you really want to
cut? How much pruning do you want to do? What low maintenance
plants are suitable for your zone? |
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The future
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Are your gardening interests and the uses of
your garden likely to change through the years? How long do you
expect to stay in this location? If not long, what low-cost,
quick-growing plants can you include in your design? |
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Recreation
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Does the garden need to provide a play
space for children? A barbecue? A swimming pool? Are there
places to sit and enjoy your garden? How will the family pet
live with your garden? |
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Specialty Gardens
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Do you want to specialize in roses, vegetables,
perennials, annuals, shrubs, foliage plants, water gardening,
rock gardening, or mix some or all of these into one garden? |
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Features, Structures, and Furniture
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The possibilities are endless — fountains, statues,
sculpture, bird feeder, decks, patios, paths, walls, berms, pergolas,
trellises, gazebos, gazing globes, benches. Where will they be placed?
What will they be made of? (Remember the line between restraint and
exuberance - don't overdo the garden decorations!) |
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Year-round Interest
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Once you've decided how much lawn you want,
where trees and tall shrubs will be placed, where vegetable and
ornamental gardens will be located, pretend that winter is the only
season. What will keep you interested in your garden? In winter,
background plants - usually shrubs, trees, and vines — take on a
feature role because of their bark, berries and shapes, so be sure
to chose background plants with these characteristics in mind. |
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