How to
Evaluate the Landscape
Potential of Your Property
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Is there a septic tank where
you'd like a pool? A group
of trees where you'd like to
open up a view? Getting a
handle on what is possible
for your property is easier
when you take a methodical
approach.
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Steps: |
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1. |
Make a scaled plan of your
property to record your
notes. |
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2. |
Take note of any special
soil conditions such as damp
spots, steep slopes or rock
outcrops. Note any rises or
low spots in the ground
elevation. |
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3. |
Locate any unmovable
obstructions such as
utilities, septic tanks or
natural features. Be sure to
take advantage of your local
power company's free
utility-locating service.
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4. |
Identify any obvious
problems such as noise
sources on adjacent
properties, unappealing
views, or a lack of privacy.
Be sure to investigate what
might be visible beyond
existing obstructions such
as fences, hedges and shrubs
- these could be there for a
reason. |
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5. |
Note where the sun and shade
are on your property. Your
house casts a shadow that is
different in winter and
summer. Note where other
features such as trees are
casting their shadows. Do
any rays of sunshine peek
through? |
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6. |
Identify the positive
attributes of your property.
Take note of appealing
views, outstanding trees or
interesting natural features
such as rocks, streams or
ponds. |
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7. |
Sketch a number of different
landscape improvement
alternatives you might like
onto tracing paper laid over
your site plan, making sure
to be realistic about scale.
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8. |
Compare each of the existing
conditions you've just
identified with the
requirements for the kind of
improvements you would like
to make. Many interesting
design features originate as
attempts to solve a problem.
If your property has a steep
slope, consider terracing.
Is afternoon sun too
intense? Consider a pergola.
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