Site Analysis
Selecting the type of garden best suited for your environment is one of keys to creating a beautiful landscape. Successful gardens are designed by gaining an understanding of your site, then building a plan based on your observations.
Begin by analyzing the conditions of your site:
1. How much sun and shade does it get throughout the day? (Morning sun, afternoon sun, full sun?)
2. What type of soil is present? (Heavy clay, loam, sandy, rocky?)
3. What is the topography of the site? (Level ground, hills, steep slope?)
4. What direction is the wind blowing? (Will you need a barrier or protection?)
5. What are the drainage patterns? (Is there standing water? How is water entering the site? Where is it leaving?)
6. Are the existing trees and plants healthy? (One of the best ways to understand a site is to see what's growing there are if it's thriving.)
7. What kind of wildlife is present? (Deer, birds, insects, native animals?)
8. What exists in the surrounding area? (traffic that may need to be blocked, a beautiful view to be framed, wildlife habitat, a waterway?)
Next, evaluate your findings and decide how you will be using the space:
1. How will the space be used? (Functional vegetable garden, aesthetic enjoyment, wildlife habitat, play area?)
2. How will foot traffic flow through the space? (Where will you need a path?)
3. How much time would you like to spend caring for the garden? (Several times per week, Once/month, Seasonal cleanup, Never)
4. How often will you need to water? (Do you have easy access to a water source if necessary?)
5. Are there any utility features in the space? (Mapping out wires, pipes, or other utility features is critical when considering safety and access needs.)
Finally, decide what plants best match your needs and the condition of the site.
Our Plant Recommendation Lists are an excellent resource to help you decide which plants will work best in your landscape.
Have more questions? Stop by one of our Garden Centers. Our knowledgeable gardening experts are happy to help you select the best plants for your garden.