Home landscaping projects can be daunting and complex, especially if it’s your first time remodeling your front yard, backyard, garden, or other outdoor area. This blog can act as a guideline to plan your landscaping project. At Schlegel Barkdust, we have seen practically every landscaping project there is, so if you visit the store, we are more than happy to give you advice on specific materials and supplies you need, as well as answer any other questions you may have.

Understanding Your Landscape Goals

Understanding your landscape goals is the first and most crucial step in creating an outdoor space that truly reflects your vision and needs. Whether you’re aiming for a serene retreat, an entertainer’s paradise, or a low-maintenance garden, defining your goals helps guide the design process. It’s important to consider factors such as your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and how you intend to use the space. Are you looking to enhance privacy, incorporate sustainable elements, or perhaps create a family-friendly play area? By identifying these goals upfront, you can ensure that the final design not only looks beautiful but also serves your practical needs, ultimately making your landscape an extension of your home and a place that brings you joy and functionality.

Evaluating Your Goals and Plan

Once you have your goals set, it’s time to see if they are actually achievable. Sometimes, our dreams can get bigger than what reality allows, but don’t worry—that’s all part of the process. When looking at your goals for the landscaping project, it’s important to consider three things: What do you need, what do you have, and where is the project?

• Determine What You Need: Materials are essential for any landscaping project, as you likely won’t have extra gravel or mulch lying around. The materials you need can vary greatly depending on the project. For example, creating a pathway requires crushed stone, brick, flagstone, or concrete slabs, while establishing a new garden may call for mulch, bark, soil, or compost. However, whatever your landscaping needs are, Schlegel Barkdust & Landscaping Supplies has you covered! You can check out all of the supplies and materials we offer on our website!
• ‍Determine What You Have: Analyze what you currently have in terms of tools and landscape. You could have all of the tools you need in your garage, and once you inspect your yard or landscape, you can find hidden gems behind overgrown weeds and shrubs, such as a nice view! By determining what you have, you can save money and better plan for what you need.
• Understand Your Yard: The layout of your yard can significantly impact your project, potentially complicating certain tasks. For instance, slopes in the topography may make it challenging or even impossible to install a rustic patio. By gaining a clear understanding of your outdoor space, you can avoid future issues and make informed decisions about positioning elements like patios, decks, and gardens. Recognizing sunny and shaded areas is essential for optimal placement, while existing features like driveways and walkways may limit your options and necessitate some excavation work.

Budgeting for Your Project

Before diving into a landscaping project, determine how much you can comfortably spend. Start by listing all the materials you’ll need, including product quantities, delivery costs, and any tools or equipment rentals. Add in a contingency—typically 10–15%—to cover unexpected expenses. Prioritize purchases that will have the biggest impact on your yard’s appearance and functionality, and consider phasing larger projects over time to spread out costs.

DIY or Hire a Professional?

Some landscaping projects can be tackled over a weekend with basic tools, while others require specialized skills, equipment, or permits. Simple tasks—like spreading barkdust, laying gravel paths, or adding decorative rock borders—are often manageable for a DIYer. More complex jobs, such as installing retaining walls, grading for drainage, or working with heavy equipment, may be safer and more efficient with professional help. Evaluate the time, tools, and expertise you have available, then choose the option that ensures the best results without exceeding your budget.

Staying on Schedule

For landscaping projects, it’s best to start them around summertime, so you won’t have to worry about supplies becoming ruined or damaged from rainfall that often happens in the greater Portland area the rest of the year. But besides the time of year, we’ve come up with three tips to adhere to when trying to stay on schedule with your landscaping project:

• ‍Set a Realistic Timeline: Before starting, work with a professional (if applicable) or create a timeline that outlines each phase of the project, including milestones and deadlines. Factor in potential delays like weather or material shortages to avoid unnecessary pressure.‍
• Break the Project Into Phases: Divide the project into manageable stages, such as design, preparation, planting, and finishing touches. Assign specific timeframes to each phase to keep progress moving steadily.‍
• Order Materials in Advance: Delays in material delivery can halt progress. Plan ahead and order plants, soil, equipment, and other supplies well before they’re needed. This ensures everything is available when it’s time to move forward. At Schlegel Barkdust, we can deliver all your landscaping supplies to your home by just calling us.

For The Right Supplies and Materials, Visit Our Location Today!

Transform your outdoor space with Schlegel Barkdust & Landscaping Supplies, your go-to source for all landscaping supplies! Whether you’re planning a garden overhaul, creating a beautiful pathway, or enhancing your yard’s aesthetics, we offer a wide variety of high-quality materials to suit every project. Our expert team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect solutions, from barkdust and mulch to soil and gravel. With prompt delivery and exceptional customer service, we make it easy to bring your landscaping visions to life. Contact Schlegel Barkdust today, and let’s get started on your dream landscape!

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