Six Things to Consider When Planning Landscape Design in Alaska

Alaska’s climate has some pretty harsh conditions. Whether you’re interested in completely redesigning your landscape or making some minor changes, there are some important factors to consider before you plant. Don’t head to the local garden supply store because they may carry plants that won’t survive here. Planning ahead will ensure that you buy plants that best suit your needs and will thrive. These tips will put you on the road to creating a beautiful, cohesive and thriving landscape.

ASSESS YOUR YARD’S CONDITIONS

It’s important to use the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to understand what can survive in Alaska. You then need to look at your own yard and its conditions. Sun, shade, wind and topography are other factors that need to be addressed

before you plant.

BUY FUNCTIONAL PLANTS

How do you want your plants to function in your yard? Are they purely aesthetic or do you want them to provide you with fresh fruits and vegetables, a lovely aroma or more. Plants can also create barriers. They can identify where your landscape ends or define certain areas.

CREATE A THOUGHTFUL LAYOUT

When planning your landscaping, you need to account for the growth of the plants. Consider how closely spaced or far apart they need to be, based on the eventual size. You can talk to

professionals about how they should be layered and staggered. For example, for hedges we recommend 16 inches in width for a normal 2-gallon shrub between 2.5 and 3 feet to allow for growth.

IT’S IN THE DETAILS

Use plants, hardscapes and garden ornaments to create an array of themes, textures and colors. Plan how these can complement and contrast each other to create a cohesive and captivating look.

PLAN FOR THE FUTURE

Be sure to consider the plant's growth rate, maintenance needs and mature size. The mature size is typically based on optimal growing conditions, so your landscape's specific conditions may cause a plant to grow larger or smaller.

BE EFFICIENT IN YOUR CHOICES

You don’t want your new landscape to be a drain on resources. Planting resource-efficient plants will help

you manage water. Also look for ones that will require fewer fertilizers and pesticides. Before removing any of your current plants, determine if they need to be removed completely or could they be replanted elsewhere.

There’s a lot to think about when planning a new landscape. It’s always a good idea to consult a professional. If you plan to hire a contractor, come to the table with a budget for the work and for future maintenance. The experts at Titan Sitework Contracting are here to help you turn your dreams into reality, find out more at www.titanalaska.net

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