As the prices of real properties skyrocket, most people can no longer afford to own houses with wide front lawns. A few meters of extra space around the perimeter or sometimes even just at the front and back of the house are what most new homeowners could afford now. This may be sad especially if you planned to have a huge sprawling garden, but even with limited space, you can still have a beautiful front garden design by planting the right plants at the right locations. Here is how you can design your own small front garden.
1) Plan the Layout
Since you will be working with a little space, it is important that you plan first before you start digging into the soil. Draw a layout of your front garden design and take note of where your walkway should be and where your garden should start and end. Make sure that trees or shrubs will not cover the front door later on.
2) Visualize Your Garden
Visualize how you want your garden to look like. Would you want it to be colorful? Then think of flowers or plants with colorful leaves. Would you want it to be a lush green? Perhaps you should choose trees and shrubs then. Once you know what you want, it is time to pick specific plants that should grow in your garden. With a small space, you do not have the luxury of planting large trees, so opt for a small tree instead.
3) Create Balance
Just like in a flower arrangement, the way you place your plants should have a balanced effect. For instance, place the tree away from the door so as not to interfere with the focal point of the front of your home. To balance the tall tree, plant some shrubs at the opposite side of the tree, near your door.
4) Make a Bed of Plants
You cannot leave the area leading from the tree to the front door bare. Make a bed of plants on this path to bridge the gap. You can choose from flowers or herbs, whichever you prefer to grow on your garden.
5) Line the Walkway
Included in your front garden design is emphasizing the path that leads to your door. To give definition to your pathway, line both sides with low flowers whose blooms complement the exterior paint of your home. Allow some space between these flowers to avoid crowding.
6) Define the Borders
You can place groups of shrubbery at the borders or corners of your garden. These will further balance the visual effect. Eventually, trim these shrubs so that they will be of different heights to add dimension.
7) Plant Some Grass
It would be nice to be able to walk on your garden barefoot, so plant some grass on it. Choose a variety that will grow well in your specific location. For instance, some varieties can withstand shaded areas while others cannot.
8) Add Some Decorations
A garden bench, a small fountain, and a gnome statue are just some great decorative ideas for your garden. They add a beauty that is different from what plants can offer. Just be minimalistic with the decorations, as you would not want to overcrowd your small front garden with them.