Winter perfect time to make landscape plans

Gardening and landscaping season may be over for the year, but that doesn't mean you can't start dreaming now about next year's projects. Use the downtime out of the yard to make a plan.

'Your yard is the biggest room you have. So when you plan your landscape think of it like you are putting on an addition,” recommended Lucy Hershberger, owner of Forever Green in Coralville. 'Do you want a place relax in after work, a play area for the kids or the ultimate entertainment room?”

Like with any addition, start by evaluating your needs. Here are some things to consider:

1. What is your budget for one year and over the next 5 or more years? Remember you don't need to do the whole project in one year. Most landscapes are done over a period of 2 to 5 years. Will your improvements increase the resale value or just your enjoyment?

2. How do you want to use your yard? Do you throw big parties or grill with the family? Are you more suited to a swimming pool, hot tub, large yard to play in or vegetable gardens? Make sure you leave space for future uses as your lifestyle changes.

3. Consider each element and how it fits into your yard. Don't put a vegetable garden a long haul from the water source. Do you want to be able to see the kids play area from the house or patio? Is the grill a convenient distance from the kitchen, or do you want an outdoor kitchen? Do you need to plan for pets with a kennel or fencing? Do you have a beautiful view to take advantage of or maybe one you want to screen?

4. How much time or money do you want to spend on maintenance like mowing and weeding?

Many people do their own planning when they are starting a do-it-yourself project. But for others, working with a landscape designer or architect to create a concept or detailed plan assures they will have the perfect outdoor living area for their lifestyle.

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Forever Green's trained, certified and experienced staff creates landscapes that suit your needs, reflect your lifestyle and blend with the environment. Visit the garden center for plants, supplies and advice for DIY projects; Forevergreengrows.com