You may be interested in finally putting together that luscious garden you’ve dreamed of, but are unsure of where to start your search when it comes to landscape amenities. In simple terms, hardscapes are the hard features in landscape design, and softscapes are the living, growing elements. Finding the right balance between the two can sometimes be a challenge, but the best landscape designs feature both.

What You Should Know About Softscapes

When most people think of landscaping, it is softscapes that come to mind. These are the flowers, plants, grass, and trees that add color to a yard and make it flourish with life. Experienced landscapers understand how important it is to feature a variety of plants for a year-round effect.

Perennials are the flowers and plants that bloom every year, and annuals are the temporary plants that die after one season. However, having a mix of annual flowers is recommended when maintaining healthy biodiversity in your garden. Annuals allow you to make adjustments to your design from year to year. Shrubs and groundcovers provide green in the winter when most flowers won’t bloom.

What You Should Know About Hardscapes

Hardscapes are the humanmade features made of hard materials, such as concrete, wood, or stone, that make landscapes functional or enhance natural details. They include walkways, fountains, patios, retaining walls, fences, and benches. Hardscapes can be small elements, like pavers or a fire pit, or significant components, which could include a driveway or gazebo. They often lead visitors through natural areas and provide a definition and sense of organization to the overall landscape.

How to Find a Good Balance

The best designs don’t feature more softscapes over hardscapes, and vice versa. Wooden or concrete planters that showcase flowers are a great example of mixing hardscapes and softscapes. The key is not to have too much contrast since doing so can overwhelm the senses. Professional landscapers have the experience and knowledge to find the right balance, which can differ for every yard depending on how much space is available and the local climate. 

Homeowners in the Cincinnati, OH, area can rely on the landscape designers at Lakeview Garden Center and Landscaping for expert advice on how to find the right balance between hardscapes and softscapes in their yard. The full-service landscaping center specializes in attention to detail and listening to the unique needs of each client. They can install features, such as walkways and retaining walls, and help you select the plants and flowers that work for your yard. Call (513) 829-6624 to request a consultation, or visit them on their website.