When planting a garden bed, consider the height plants will be when they are mature. Put taller plants in the back, shorter plants up front. A thoughtfully planned landscape will have color all year around. Choose flowers that bloom at different times of year, trees that turn a variety of fall colors, and some evergreen plants to keep things green in winter, too. A little time spent thinking now can save you hours and hours of yard and garden work through the years.
Ground covers and decorative mulches require less maintenance and water than traditional lawns.
Some ground covers may be mowed a couple of times a year to keep them looking tidy. Consider having your yard imitate its natural sourroundings. For instance, if you're trying to landscape in a desert area, forego the green lawn and use sand, rocks, and native plantings to reduce watering and maintenance. Plants and trees that are native or well-adapted to your area will be much less trouble to care for than exotics that require pampering. Massed plantings are easier to tend than individual specimens scattered here and there.