Article by Landscaping Supply

The word “landscape” usually invites visions of rolling green lawns, picturesque statutes, gorgeous flowers and neatly trimmed bushes and for many homes who hire a landscaper (or homeowners who choose to do it themselves) this is usually the case. However, for city and condominium dwellers, the word “landscape” could be as much as a square patch of grass to something as small as a potted plant on a balcony. Smaller spaces, however, shouldn’t deter those with green thumbs. If anything, these smaller spaces should be welcomed as a platform for creativity and as an ability to really turn a small space into a small oasis.

1. Step One: Landscaping Materials

The biggest concern when landscaping for smaller spaces is materials. Are plants needed? Are flowers needed? Mulch? Stone? As a professional or amateur landscaper, consider the size of the space first to be able to consider what materials will be needed. Soil, stone, mulch are usually safe options for smaller backyards, decks and balconies as they can be incorporated into a multitude of mediums.

2. Step Two: Assess The Space & Design

Balconies could benefit more from hardscaping. A long, rectangular pot filled with soil and mulch could operate as a bed for flowers and plants. Placing taller plants or trees in the corners could add to the aesthetic quality and for those who aren’t fearful of “weeds,” draping faux vining* around the railing could create nice scenery. Additions such as tall lamps, lounge chairs and chaises and lanterns could add also add to the landscaping.

Decks that are slightly larger could actually have areas to serve as gardens. Selecting out a space, filling the area with soil and mulch and surrounding it with stone could create a gorgeous deck side garden. Growing flowers, plants or even small strawberry plants could not only create a nice area but also smell nice! Adding trees, shrubs, faux vining, lanterns and incorporating hardscaping such as statues, oversize stone and rock (as decks allow for more space) can also be used here.

Small backyards are usually harder to work with due to the conflict of space versus the all of the creative landscaping options and ideas. By narrowing in one corner or one select idea will allow the greatest utilization of the space. Stone hardscaping usually works best for these area as well as mulched garden spaces, as these areas help to break up the area and divide the space up.

3. Maintenance

The biggest inhibitor from turning these smaller spaces into a landscaping oasis is maintenance. More often than not, these smaller spaces frustrate the homeowner or renter and maintaining the space becomes a last item on the to-do list. By constantly maintaining and updating the space often the area will stay fresh, neat and landscaped!

*use faux vining as real vining are actually weeds and could overcome surrounding plants

About the Author

JKE are expert manufacturers landscaping mulch, topsoil, and other landscaping products and services in Northern Virginia. All the landscaping materials are created in-house, and are available for delivery or pick-up at one of our four locations in Northern VA.