Landscape Renovation
Trees and shrubs block the sidewalk, hide my front door and prevent sun from shining into the house. Some shrubs have grown large and close together while others are bare. What should I do?
Plants in a typical suburban landscape remain functional for about three to four decades, longer if they are well planned and maintained. Renovation of an overgrown landscape allows you to:
- Maintain a safe home environment
- Reduce home energy costs
- Prevent costly repairs
- Create a low-maintenance yard
- Plan for outdoor functional space
Landscape renovation is a major project – to make the job manageable, you may want to focus on different areas over time. Before starting, it is important to analyze the whole site both close up and from a distance. To get started, learn how to do a basic site assessment. (See: http://hort.cals.cornell.edu ) What is the soil quality, exposure to sun, shade, wind or other factors? Begin with a rough sketch of the property or use a copy of your tax map as a starting point.
You may need the help of a professional landscape designer or engineer to refine your plans. Resist the urge to grab a shovel and start adding or removing trees or shrubs; some might prove to be useful or in a great location already.
Look for significant traits and potential liabilities inherent in the site, such as grade and stormwater movement, drainage problems, sink holes, utility boxes and wires, existing hardscape features, pavement issues or cracks in your foundation. Include a health status inventory of trees, shrubs, and plants. Is there damage caused by natural disasters or a pest infestation?
If the landscape has matured, are the plantings crowded or the trees too big for the space they inhabit? Is the landscape in proportion to the structure? Have the shrubs lost their form, or is the grass suffering from constant compaction in a walking pathway or playground area? From a distance, what do you see? Is there curb appeal? Is there a point of interest or a color scheme?
More points to consider: Do you have the time to mow and prune? Would you like to replace the swing set with an entertainment area including a pergola, fireplace or outdoor kitchen? Formal designs will require you to perform regular maintenance or hire a landscaper. Informal designs require less maintenance.
A well planned and maintained landscape may reduce heating and cooling costs by 20 to 40 percent. In summer, deciduous trees planted on the east, south and west sides of the house provide cool shade. During winter, the sun will shine through the branches of the bare trees to help warm the house.
Successful renovation includes developing a budget and installation calendar along with a new landscape maintenance plan. Sound energy efficient designs will increase the value of your property, save on energy costs to heat and cool, and reduce stress on the environment.
For more information on Energy Saving Landscaping, contact your local Cooperative Extension or visit www.gardening.cornell.edu/
Audrey Kaehler-Stark, Master Gardener
