In Need of a New Look
Knapp Valley Gardens completed a landscaping remodel this spring for homeowners who wanted a new look in their front yard. The plants and bushes in the old landscaping were practically bursting out of their space. The gardens were looking overgrown, making the entry to the home feel tight and closed in instead of bringing that feeling of warmth, calm, and openness that you want in a welcoming entry.
Japanese Inspiration – Bringing the Zen
The owners favored the simplicity and tranquility of a Japanese garden, not to mention the low maintenance of fewer and smaller plants. Knapp Valley had the experience and the products to make this vision into a Zen dream come true. In keeping with the theme, our designers drew up plans for a minimalist and serene yet welcoming entry.
Then, Knapp Valley crews got to work removing overgrown shrubs, trees, and plants flanking the entrance and running along the side of the garage. While the basic landscape footprint stayed the same, the edge between garden and grass was reworked to extend the grass to the end of the walk leading up to the house to add balance, another Japanese garden feature.
GRASS EXTENDED
Plantings Picked for Peak Serenity
Next came the fun part of installing new greenery. A Lavender Twist redbud became the anchor tree on the right, and a Bloodgood Japanese maple filled in the left corner of the house. Shrubs including Hinoki cypress, hydrangeas, roses, and boxwoods were added throughout as well as many low-care perennials like Japanese forest grass, geraniums, and coral bells.
Decorative blue slate stone and updated lighting finished off the new entry. The pagoda and lanterns tying everything together were provided by the homeowners.
The result is an updated and understated Japanese garden-inspired landscape that will require minimal care and will grow into its maximum potential over the coming years.
