A: I understand that a messy or unkempt landscape can be a bit overwhelming. This couple tells me that they started by cleaning up all the plants that were overgrown. Even if you don’t know much about gardening, that’s a fine place to start. Removing yard debris, trash, and pruning out dead limbs or sickly parts of plants can make a big difference in a short amount of time. Throwing mulch or pine straw over weedy or bare areas can quickly make an area more aesthetically pleasing as well.
When I bought my first home, I had to exhibit patience by observing all four seasons before I began to plant new or move things around. Bulbs could be hiding in the ground, perennials like hostas could pop up anywhere, and shrubs like hydrangeas that look like bare or dead limbs begin to leaf out in spring.
And to keep from being overwhelmed, start with just one section at a time. Concentrate on one bed, just the side yard, or learn when to prune one row of shrubs. Scout that section for a few days- observe how much sun it gets, whether or not the soil drains after a good rain, and decide what would serve the best purpose there- something flowering, something to create privacy, a groundcover, low maintenance shrubs, or perhaps colorful annuals. Local garden clubs and nurseries are happy to make seasonal plant recommendations based on the homeowner’s desires and whether or not the area to be planted is in full sun or shade.