If you're planning to add new plants to the landscape beds on your property in Iowa, there are some key factors you should consider. For starters, you’ll want to figure out your soil type. Whether your soil is acidic or alkali will determine what kind of plants will thrive best in it. You should also consider how much sunlight your plants get so you can pick plants that will do well with the amount of sun they will get. The color palette you choose when having new plants installed impacts your property's aesthetic—whether harmonious, vibrant, or contrasting. Lastly, you will want to balance your commitment to maintenance. Do you want a low-maintenance, “set it and forget it” kind of landscape? Or do you want to spend quality time outside giving your prized plants lots of TLC? Taking all these factors into consideration when having new plants added to your landscape beds will ensure a successful and visually pleasing transformation of your outdoor space.

Choose plants that will thrive in the soil conditions of your landscape beds.

When considering new plants for your landscape beds, it's crucial to take a close look at your soil conditions. Different types of soil can greatly influence the success of your plants. Sandy soils drain quickly, making them suitable for drought-tolerant plants like succulents and lavender. Clay soils retain moisture, making them better for moisture-loving plants like ferns and hostas. Loamy soils—a mix of sand, silt, and clay—offer a balance that accommodates a wide range of plants, including shrubs like roses and flowering perennials like daylilies.

Consider how much sunlight your landscape beds receive.

The amount of sunlight your landscape beds receive plays a pivotal role in plant selection. Some plants thrive in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. These can include vibrant sunflowers, zinnias, and roses. Others prefer the cool embrace of shade, making them excellent choices for shaded areas or spots with dappled sunlight. Shade-loving plants like ferns, hostas, and impatiens can bring life to those darker corners of your landscape.

Perennial flowers return and bloom year after year, while annual flowers complete their life cycle within one growing season.

Take into consideration the colors of the plants.

Adding new plants to your landscape offers the opportunity to play with colors and create a cohesive aesthetic. Consider the color palette you want to achieve. You could opt for a simple monochromatic look, using varying shades of one color for a serene and harmonious effect. Alternatively, you can mix and match bold and vibrant colors for a lively and energetic vibe. You might also choose complementary colors, like purple and yellow, to create eye-catching contrasts. The colors you choose will set the tone for your landscape's overall appeal, so think about the ambiance you wish to create.

Consider the maintenance requirements of your plants.

As you introduce new plants, think about the level of maintenance you're willing to commit to. Some plants demand more attention, like roses that require regular pruning and fertilizing, or annual flowers that need replanting each year. On the flip side, low-maintenance options such as native grasses, succulents, and evergreen shrubs demand less care. By understanding the care requirements of your chosen plants, you can ensure that your landscape fits your lifestyle. If you're keen on a lush garden but have limited time for maintenance, leaning toward plants with minimal upkeep can help you strike that balance.

Give us a call today to schedule our plantings and softscape service.

At Brilliant Borders Landscaping, we can help you fill your landscape beds with beautiful plants via our plantings and softscapes service. Choose from a diverse selection of plants and flowers to craft the landscape of your dreams. Our experts will guide you every step of the way to ensure that your vision comes to life. We proudly serve residential and commercial property owners in Waukee, IA, and neighboring areas like West Des Moines and Urbandale. Reach out to us today at (515) 664-6205 to schedule our plantings and softscape service and elevate the beauty of your property!