In this article, we will be discussing the importance of proper planning and understanding your property when it comes to landscaping. We will also explore some landscaping pet peeves and learn about the evolution of landscape design in Stephanie Bonin's own backyard. Additionally, we will delve into the collaborative nature of landscape projects and the benefits of phasing out your landscaping plans. Finally, we will provide some tips on how to effectively communicate your landscaping preferences to a landscape architect and how to maintain a record of your plantings.

Understanding Your Property
When it comes to landscaping, it is crucial to have a good understanding of your property. This includes knowing the dimensions of your property lines and being aware of any non-conforming structures, such as sheds, that may need to be addressed if you plan on making changes or additions to your landscape. Many homeowners are not fully aware of the limits of their property, which can lead to complications down the line. Taking the time to familiarize yourself with your property can save you a lot of trouble and headaches in the future.

One important aspect of understanding your property is knowing the health of your trees. Are there any diseased or dying trees that may need to be removed? Are there any healthy trees that you want to preserve and incorporate into your landscaping plans? These are important questions to consider when planning your landscape.

Another consideration is the layout of your property. Stephanie, shares her pet peeve of garages being highlighted more than the house itself. She believes that the emphasis should be on the front door and the house, rather than the driveway leading to the garage. This is something to keep in mind when designing your landscape, as the layout can greatly impact the overall aesthetic of your home.

The Evolution of Stephanie Bonin's Backyard
Stephanie Bonin has been living in her home since 2007 and has done a lot of work in her backyard over the years. She finds landscaping and gardening to be therapeutic and enjoys spending time in her garden. She has experimented with different plants and has recently started learning how to grow things from seed and propagate shrubs. For Stephanie, it's not just about the flowers, but also about the beauty of seeing a flower grow and flourish.

Collaborative Landscape Projects
Stephanie enjoys projects that involve multiple professional teams, such as engineers, arborists, architects, and contractors. She believes that putting all the puzzle pieces together is what makes a project interesting and challenging. Each professional brings their expertise to the table, whether it's analyzing trees, designing the house, or providing engineering solutions. Collaborative projects are not only fun but also ensure that all aspects of the landscape are taken into consideration.

Phasing Out Your Landscaping Plans
If budget constraints are a concern, Stephanie suggests phasing out your landscaping plans. This means breaking down your project into smaller phases and completing them over time as your budget allows. For example, you can start with the immediate patio, walkway, and driveway, and then plan for the pool in the future. By having a master plan in place, you can cost out the project long-term and shop around for the best prices. Phasing out your landscaping plans allows you to prioritize what needs to be done first and make adjustments along the way. It also gives you the flexibility to add more plantings and beds as your budget allows, continually improving your landscape over time.

Communicating Your Landscaping Preferences
When working with a landscape architect or exterior designer, it's important to effectively communicate your landscaping preferences. Stephanie recommends building a repertoire of images that you like, whether it's from houses you've seen or from social media platforms like Instagram. These images can help guide the designer in understanding your style and preferences. Additionally, creating a wish list of features and elements you want in your landscape can help the designer tailor the project to your needs.

Maintaining a Record of Your Plantings
Stephanie advises homeowners to keep the tags of their plants when they are installed. This allows you to easily identify the plants and replace them if needed. It's also helpful when sharing information about your plants with others, such as friends or nursery staff. By keeping the tags, you can ensure that you have a record of all the plants in your landscape and make informed decisions about their care and maintenance.

Proper planning and understanding your property are key when it comes to landscaping. Taking the time to familiarize yourself with your property and its limitations can save you future complications. Collaborative landscape projects involving multiple professionals can result in a well-rounded and comprehensive design. Phasing out your landscaping plans allows you to work within your budget and continually improve your landscape over time. Effective communication with your landscape architect or designer is essential in bringing your vision to life. And finally, maintaining a record of your plantings by keeping the tags can help you identify and care for your plants in the future.