Hardscape in your Landscape-part 2

In his first post, Jason Allison introduced us to the concept of hardscape in our landscaping. In part two, Jason will conclude his article with issues that need to be addressed when bringing hardscape into your landscape.

When adding hardscape to your landscaping, always consider your drainage. If this is not addressed properly from the onset, it can cause many problems down the line. It is always important to consider the run-off from the hardscape as well as different options to catch and control the water.

Although many of the material options are considered “permeable”, or will let water drain through, even they cannot completely absorb all of the rainfall that can come down in a hurry from time to time. Proper planning and implementing can alleviate these problems. Often creative solutions, like dry creek beds, can actually add to the landscape as a whole.

Last, and by no means least, it is important to consider how the hardscape will work with the rest of the landscape as a whole. As I said before, they both can compliment each other greatly and a good planting design will only enhance your enjoyment of your hardscape.

Often you can soften the edges with plantings like vines or Rosemary training over walls and edges. Also, a hardscape generally lends itself to boundaries that are ideal for creating planting beds that can be filled with flowers, shrubs and trees that can add colors, scents, textures and shade to the area.

All in all, hardscapes can definitely add value and useable space to any landscape or home in general. Just keep in mind a few things when planning and implementing the project and you will have a permanent structure that you will be able to enjoy for years to come with little maintenance required.