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Landscape & Irrigation Plans
Draw the outlines of your property on graph paper. Overlay the outline with sheets of tracing paper and sketch in your designs. You don’t need to be an artist, just draw to scale. Be sure to use realistic dimensions for the activity desired in a given area. Generally, scales use the following reference points: 1/8 inch equals 1 foot. However, if your graph paper is divided into 1/4 inch squares, then use 1/4 inch equals 1 foot. Consider the following when planning the layout of your garden:
| • | Permanent structures, such as decorative walls, retaining walls, fences, patios, gazebos, arbors, and trellises, may require a permit for construction. Check with your building department or HOA for codes and restrictions. |
| • | Pools and tubs require safety fencing. Check with your building department for codes and restrictions. |
Wrought iron safety fence.
| • | Children’s play areas should be in clear view of a commonly used window. |
| • | The outdoor grill and dining area should be within reach of the kitchen. Do not place the grill on a flammable surface, such as a wood deck. |
| • | Provide adequate dimensions for each proposed planting area. |
| • | A cut-flower garden, vegetable garden, and/or compost bin should be screened, or hidden from view, yet kept within easy access from the kitchen. Screening can be accomplished in several different ways: |
| a) | A row of trees can create definition and add seasonal color throughout the year. |
| b) | Low hedges and fences direct the eye, create outdoor rooms, and restrict foot traffic. |
| c) | Tall hedges work well as exterior borders for outdoor rooms where you desire complete privacy or to block an unattractive view. |
| d) | Arbors are especially good for screening off a vegetable, or cutting garden, as well as providing pleasant, shady areas. |
A decorative living screen for a plain wall.
e) Existing walls, such as the garage, are a good choice for high screening.
| f) | Changes in ground level using steps, terraces, or stairs, are also a good screening technique. |
If you are having trouble drawing what your prospective garden plan might look like, mock up a fake version of the real thing. Tall stakes can stand in for trees, or elements such as an arbor. Large pieces of cardboard can indicate paving or decks. Strings or garden hoses can outline paths and garden rooms. Leave the stakes, cardboard, and hoses in place for a few days to see how it influences traffic patterns, views, privacy, and access.
Go to Hydrozoning.
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