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Two and a half years ago when we moved into our current home my determination was to reduce yard work! I was always so proud of the perennial gardens overflowing with fill-in bright colored annuals. But the weeds! And, of course, some of the favorite perennials spread and re-seed. Logical thought says if we put everything in big pots, those pesky weeds are less likely to find a spot to grow and the vivacious perennials would be curbed.

The landscape architect hired to pull together our small yard was adamant that the ground cover should be a mixture of small pebbles and wood chips. My advice – don’t make that choice. It’s messy, I can’t rake up any debris without getting all chips (has anyone told the landscaper that rocks are heavier than chips?) With that picture in your mind, add over 70 pots brimming with bright reds, yellows, pinks and purples. And, of course, my favorite dusty miller – that frosty, leafy plant that tucks so neatly in the pots to create contrast.

This season, in the interest of being “frugal” I economized by purchasing fewer “character” plants, and used the ordinary “on sale” petunia, alyssum, and all varieties of marigolds. The view of my yard is still attractive and festive. I haven’t convinced Jim yet that I have reduced my yard work…there’s the drip system to water the pots – and some are still being done by hose.  The weeds are still finding their way in the bark chips – would they like plain pebble less?

Summer has its’ many blessings and whether flowers are cheaper or more creative – they are a joy!! So, how’s your yard this summer? It does add value to your home!

My flower pots are empty and screaming for attention! With great anxiousness I await the blooming trees. Then it snows! Before I get myself into a “twitter” let’s talk about our landscaping. Whether considering how we live with our landscaping choices, or we are going to sell (now or in the future) here are some ideas I have gathered over the years. In fact, having just been with several different buyers recently, I’ll share with you some of their comments.

First, do you like simplicity or all the master gardener details and variety? Buyers with children do not like a yard requiring time consuming maintenance. Also, I noticed that ponds, waterfalls, and taller ledges (while visually attractive) don’t appeal to protective parents. If you are like Jim and me, our little pond offers pleasant sounds, a variety of colors and plants, and a pleasing visual effect – but we have to watch the grandkids closely when they visit. Consider how you will live in your yard – and who. Maybe the birds, squirrels and occasional turkeys and deer will help you make some decisions. For instance, all my spring bulbs are in fenced areas. Those deer find tulips delectable!

The plan to stay in our homes for many years allows us to “do our own thing”, but what if we’re trying to sell a property? Here are some ideas: consider good color in the front yard. Red and yellow. Psychologists tell us that yellow is the first color our eyes process – but I’ve always said a pot of red flowers will do wonders for first impressions. Walkways are more pleasant if they are curved – maybe flowers marking the pathway. There are so many different water features available now that wouldn’t cause parental concern – it’s worth considering. Water enhances ambiance, is relaxing and refreshes the spirit. Some flowers have a pleasant fragrance – use them near the front entrance. Not enough can be said for neatness. Bushes trimmed, trees not blocking views, shrubs healthy and grass mowed.

Here’s a suggestion: if you are going to sell, start on the yard first. It takes awhile for plantings to grow – then go to the inside for fresh paint and decluttering. Oh yes, a side benefit – if you start sprucing up your yard, it will encourage the neighbors to do the same. That helps create a great first impression when buyers drive down the street. In every neighborhood we have lived in, there has been one “neat-nik”. Now that is pressure! Motivating. You might even decide that everything looks so good – why move? That doesn’t sound like a Realtor, does it? Hmmmmm…