
Landscaping has a huge impact on the overall look and feel of your home (and it can improve resale value, too). The landscaping style you choose should allow your yard to be a place where you can go to relax and decompress from the rest of the world.
When choosing a type of landscaping design, keep in mind your ultimate goals, such as designing your yard for children, sustainability, entertaining or relaxation. Be aware of any zoning laws in your neighborhood that may prohibit certain types or sizes of structures and of your climate; not every style of landscaping is conducive to all types of weather.
You don’t have to fly to a remote island to experience tropical vibes. You can recreate them for your own backyard landscaping project with lush greenery and bold colors. If your climate suports it, palm trees, birds of paradise, hibiscus flowers, bougainvillea, orchids and jasmine are all representative of a tropical getaway.

There are also tropical touches you can add in any growing zone. A hammock swaying in the breeze, a swimming pool or hot tub—with a waterfall to really level up—tiki statues and torches, bamboo accents, a fire pit and brightly colored outdoor furniture are functional even in less-than-tropical climates. Making a signature cocktail at a backyard tiki bar is optional.
If your idea of an ideal getaway is a cozy cabin in the woods, consider a woodland landscaping style. This type of landscape design is an excellent choice for a low-maintenance option; forest trees, shrubs and florals can be left to grow in their own time with little human interference.
Hardwood trees (like oak, maple, hickory, walnut and cherry) are traditional choices but do take longer to grow and are a long-term investment. These trees also go dormant in the winter, so consider what the landscape will look like in all seasons. Softwoods (including cedar, Douglas fir, juniper, pine, redwood, spruce and yew) grow more quickly and retain their coverage during the winter.
In terms of structural additions, stone pathways, wooden benches and decorative or functional birdhouses help create a woodland feel.
If tall trees aren’t your style, consider recreating a prairie landscape with tall grasses and herbaceous flowering plants. Switchgrass, which is native to the plains in the southwest U.S., has greens, browns and even a little purple or red

It has evolved to many environments, from cold to warm and shallow to deep soil, so it can be adaptable to most climates. Switchgrass is also drought-resistant, so it’s a good option if you live in an area that doesn’t get a lot of rain. It can also be a less expensive option than trees or shrubbery.
English garden, also known as English cottage or English countryside is a popular landscape style that evokes stories about summering at your grandmother’s in Kent, which is nicknamed the “Garden of England.” It was the English garden style of landscaping that actually helped people view nature as something to be appreciated and valued rather than feared. Alongside florals, shrubbery and trees, a body of water is a common English garden feature. Whether manmade or natural, this could be a lake at large scale, or a pond or reflecting pool on the smaller end. A bridge, a bench and a birdbath are classic accompaniments, along with sculptures and a cobblestone path.
Tuscan Gardens. You don’t need 300 acres to recreate your own slice of the Medici gardens in Tuscany, Italy. You can emulate these famous gardens and others in Italy with a Tuscan style of landscaping. The region is known for its rolling hills, verdant vineyards and fragrant olive trees. Even without these exact components, you can achieve a Tuscan look and feel.

Spanish style landscaping is popular in areas of similar climate, hot and dry. Influenced by Islamic, Persian and Moorish gardens but with a flair of its own, this type of design is typically tolerant of drought, meaning that grass is not a central or necessary element. Most structural elements of Spanish landscape design include ceramic: it can be found in benches, reflecting pools, walls, walkways, decorative touches and fountains. In terms of fountains, the Spanish style is not one large centerpiece but multiple smaller pieces. Terracotta pots, urns and bright blue glazed accent decor are also authentic touches

No matter which landscaping style spoke to you, make sure you’re considering the best style for your property. Consider factors like climate, weather, personal preferences and maintenance level before settling on your finalized style. If you are looking for more landscaping ideas and must-knows, our resident general contractor has some advise. SOURCE: FORBES