Thinking of doing some backyard landscaping? Here are some of the basic principles of yard landscaping to help you consider all the elements in your garden’s design.

Sometimes we just feel the need for a change. And it’s no different when it comes to our backyards. But whether you’re making the changes to your garden for aesthetic reasons or for practical ones, it’s helpful to have a basic understanding of landscaping before you begin.

Landscaping is more than just gardening, although most landscaping involves some gardening. It is developing an outdoor area to suit our needs and often involves earthmoving and the construction of outdoor structures such as decks, pergolas, sheds, fences, retaining walls, driveways and paths. These constructed objects are called ‘hard landscaping’ features.

Hard landscaping also refers to solid objects such as freestanding boulders, rocks and stones in a rock garden, and natural timber that is not part of a living plant. Essentially, anything in an outdoor space that is not alive comes under the umbrella of hard landscaping.

Hard landscaping features are often called the ‘bones’ of a garden because they are often put in place first. The paths, walls and paved areas provide structure to the outdoor space, and the construction work to install these features usually occurs before any planting – adding ‘flesh’ to the ‘bones’ – begins.

The plants, from lawns and groundcover to the tallest of trees, are often referred to as ‘soft landscaping’. Plants can provide beauty, colour and vibrant life in a garden. They may grow directly from the soil, or in pots. Clever use of plants in a yard landscaping design can turn an otherwise ordinary garden into a remarkable one.

Skilful backyard landscaping takes into account all the needs of the people who will use the outdoor space. This might include children’s play areas, entertaining spaces for adults, vegetable and herb gardens, meditation areas for quiet times, or visual elements or focal points to provide a ‘wow’ factor.

Garden designers and landscape architects are trained to use their creativity to make the most of outdoor spaces. They must also understand the practical elements of construction and have a thorough knowledge of plants. The very best professionals see opportunities where others might see constraints or restrictions.

This does not mean that you cannot landscape your own backyard (take a look at our backyard design ideas). But it does suggest that seeking some professional advice before going ahead with your landscaping plans will give you an even better chance to turn your tired garden into a landscaped wonderland.

To begin your backyard landscaping journey, find a landscape designer or gardener in your area.