As the weather warms (or pretends to), I’m starting to assemble my outdoor to do list. Last summer was our first with a yard of our own and I was decidedly ambitious about what I thought could be done, especially given the brown colour of my thumbs. As a result, I spent a lot of time weeding and cultivating the best way I know how, and an even more significant amount of time being annoyed with how everything looked.
So, I’m here to admit to you that I am going on a garden strike, or partial strike at least. I don’t know what I’m doing, I don’t do any of it well, and in the end, my gardens and flower beds just make me sad and stressed when they’re in disrepair. Call me lazy … call me uninspired if you must, but I’m planning to do what I think is best, both for my curb appeal and my sanity.
Step #1: Two beds are going bye-bye. I need to practice a little more restraint and focus on smaller portions of the yard. Rather than big messes, I think these areas will be much more suited to grass.
Step #2: Figure out what all the plants are, then move or dispose of as necessary. I like some of what’s there already, so I plan to use those things elsewhere.
Step #3: Make everything prettier. This will start with some edging, some patio stones and bricks or decorative rocks … or whatever those things are called.
My main plan is to look at other people’s yards and copy their ideas. Sort of like Pinterest for landscaping.
What do you think? Please comment with your thoughts and ideas. I’ll be sure to post before and after photos as my lawn dream becomes a reality.
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Be sure to pick up your copy of The Chronicle Herald Weekend this Saturday, which features Herald Homes. Starting this week, I’ll be sharing my experiences and interviews with experts in a new column called The More You Know, which will help to educate first-time homeowners like me on a bevy of house-related topics. I hope you enjoy and I look forward to your feedback at lbunin@herald.ca.
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