8 San Diego Landscaping Mistakes

Not having a plan. Starting a landscaping project without a solid plan means you might not be satisfied with the end result. If you have the money to do so, consider hiring a landscape architect.

Choosing plants not suited to your climate. Just because a plant is for sale at your local garden center, that doesn’t mean it’s going to grow in your yard. Some plants require more effor than they’re worth in order for them to grow in harsh climates. We’re lucky here in San Diego since our weather tends to be relatively mild, but in areas of East San Diego like El Cajon, or Escondido where there is harsher heat, you may want to evaluate the conditions needed for your plants to thrive.

Forgetting about proper irrigation. Each plant in your yard may have different watering needs. This is another great reason to start with a good plan. You don’t want to risk killing plants by either over or under-watering them, and you definitely don’t want to have to rework your irrigation after your landscaping project has been completed.

Improper tree placement. We have probably all seen a tree in a neighbor’s yard that has overgrown and is hanging over their home. That is a huge hazard. When you’re planning your landscaping project, don’t forget that trees get big! Don’t plant them too close to your house, walkways, or deck. Try to visualize what the tree will look like when it’s larger when you’re in the planning stages.

Getting in over your head. Be honest with yourself about how much time you can and want to spend maintaining your yard. Make choices that are realistic to your level of dedication to the upkeep.

Excessive lawn ornamentation. Too many decorative items will take away from the natural beauty of your yard. Before you place that tenth garden gnome in your yard, ask yourself “How well does this really fit in?”

 Not accounting for critters. Deer, rabbits, and other backyard pests don’t appreciate the amount of work you put into your lovely landscaping, they just see it as an all-you-can-eat buffet. Try looking for plant varieties that animals won’t want to eat

Not thinking ahead. Sure, your plants look lovely in the Spring, but what about the Fall? Make sure you choose a variety of plants that enable the beauty of your yard to transform throughout the seasons.