Long-term landscape solutions for your garden

Before you start landscaping, there are some important things to consider - don't do anything without thinking about these landscape solutions first.

Choose a landscape professional you'll get on with

A large part of the process involves consultation, so you need to be able to discuss your needs and desires openly and honestly in order to ensure you end up with the garden you're looking for.

Think beyond the immediate future

Ask the professional you've engaged to detail what other landscaping you may be able to do in the more distant future. Think about soil preparation, planting options, shade, even lighting possibilities for your outdoor spaces, even if you can't (or can't afford to) do it all at once.

Will the landscape solutions last?

Not just in terms of materials used, but the style. Choose classic styles and patterns to ensure that five years down the track you're not the laughing stock of your neighbourhood. Ask your professional for advice on what landscaping options will stand the test of time and not date quickly.

Take some 'before shots'

Take photographs of the garden or space before the landscaping work begins. It makes a good record of how far your property has come. Take some photographs of the work during the project too, to record the process itself for posterity.

Don't believe DIY is as easy as it seems on TV

A little knowledge can sometimes be a dangerous thing. Just because it seems simple on television doesn't mean you'll be able to replicate it on your own property and with inferior equipment. Even if you're planning DIY, speak to professionals first, to learn what mistakes are most commonly made.

Welcome to the jungle

Don't believe that the situation is hopeless. With the right landscape designer on board, the jungle can become your perfect manicured haven more quickly than you think and reinforce the positives behind hiring a designer with landscape solutions tailored to your needs.