There are many factors to consider in landscape design. San Antonio Landscaping Services can be a do-it-yourself project or can be done by landscape professionals like landscape architects and contractors. Some of the first things to consider are money, time and effort. A budget should be determined to limit overspending. The amount of time and work put into landscaping should also be taken into account. Some other factors might include climate, soil and regulations. Normally, the first step in landscaping is planning. Computer software can be used to model the property being landscaped. Maps and blueprints might be drawn up to show the layout of features and boundaries. Photographs may be taken along with notes to help fill in details. Once the big picture can be seen, lists are made for the types of materials to be used, the types of plants to be added and the tools and equipment that will be needed to do the work.
At the beginning stage of landscape planning, the elements and theme need to be decided. Water issues have to be addressed such as irrigation and drainage. Installing an irrigation system may require a professional landscaping contractor. Pipes, sprinklers and timer with electrical system should be included in landscaping plans. If the landscaping theme includes swimming pools, waterfalls, fountains or a pond, a landscaping service should also be considered. The amount of light should be taken into account when landscaping.
The types of trees and plants can be a factor in achieving a balance between sun and shade. Different types of lighting at nighttime can add to a landscape’s effects. These include up lighting where lights shine from below, down lighting, silhouetting or the addition of lamps, floodlights, or lanterns. Various types of themes are possible but generally depend on the region and the climate. Desert themes that use cactus and plants that are used to dry environments and tropical themes would be more appropriate for warmer climates. Other types of themes might be Japanese, mountain or a winter theme with evergreens.
Some of the preliminary landscaping tasks that might have to be done before planting include soil testing. The pH level has to be set to the type of plants being used. Plant nutrients might also have to be added.
The types of materials to be used may depend on the structures to be built on the landscape. Walkways, steps, paving and retaining walls might require materials used in masonry like brick, stone, sand and concrete. Decks, gazebos, gates and trellises as well as a fence might require a large amount of wood.
