Planning Your Garden from Scratch: Boundaries, Lawns & Hardscape

A blank canvas is a gift—but only if you plan before you plant. Start with the bones: boundaries, lawn, hardscape, structures.

Boundary Options

• Wire fence: Ugly initially; cover with climbers/bushes.
• Wood panel: Needs preservative (not creosote—harms plants). Concrete posts = easy panel swap.
• Rail & plank: Nailed planks, protective coating, easy plank replacement.
• Hedge: Annual clipping. Choose height-matched, non-invasive (avoid Leylandii).

Lawn: Worth It?

Water, feed, mow weekly, aerate, scarify, weed. Therapeutic for some; burden for others. Astroturf = zero maintenance.

Hardscape Possibilities

Patio (paved/deck), raised beds (stone/brick), terracing, paths (gravel, slate, steppers), pot groupings, evening-sun seating nook.

Structures & Screening

• Pergola/arch/trellis for climbers.
• Shed or cabinet—visible or camouflaged?
• Veg bed/greenhouse screened by climbers (tomatoes aren’t pretty).

Decide now. Changing hardscape later is painful. Next: choosing plants.