If you’ve never ventured into the world of landscaping before, it can seem like a scary and overwhelming process. the good news is that landscaping covers everything from planting flowers to a complete remodel of your backyard, so you can work your way up. Not sure how to begin? Here are a few tips to help you get started.

Make a List

MAking a list of needs and wants will not only allow you to get organized, it will allow you to prioritize important things. If there’s a problem in your yard that needs to be fixed immediately, then the new patio furniture can most likely wait. And that old swing set? It might finally be time to get rid of it. In addition, drawing up a rough sketch of the space in your yard can allow for better planning.

Know Your Yard

Studying the sun and wind patterns in your backyard could be extremely beneficial to you. It could help with placement, and even influence what you buy. For example, if your backyard faces west, you may want a patio there to enjoy the sunsets, but an awning or umbrellas may also be a good idea.

Live With It

Making quick decisions about your yard is one of the things that most landscapers will warn you about. Any landscape service will encourage you to sit on your decision for a little while and let the vision really sink in. If you shell out money for a concept that you hate, then it’s not worth it.

Start Small

Most backyard renovation shows will have landscape services in and out within three days…with a crew of 60 people. You, unfortunately, do not have those kinds of resources to work with. Starting small with a flower bed or new shrubs can be a good way to gauge how much time certain projects will take, and how much time you’re willing to spend with them.

If you’re concerned about doing it yourself, you should contact a landscape service near you. Bigger projects not only require more hands, they require more expertise. If you start small and use these tips, you’ll be on your way to backyard paradise in no time.