Is your yard a blank canvas?

Have you moved into new construction or just need a fresh start on an abandoned yard?  Start with a design.  When designing a garden, the first thing you should think of is yourself.  Really, it's okay to be selfish.  I want you to consider what you like, what you don't like, your style, your preference, how you like to spend your time, what you like to think about, what you like to talk about, what you think is pretty, avant-garde, classy, tacky & silly.  All of this, and so much more, is the essence of you.  And, that is what your garden should be.  Along with illustrating a strong sense of place, your garden should be a place for retreat, or meditation, for joy and laughter.  Creating a space just for you should be fun and exciting.  Start by listing all of the things you want to do in your outside world.  Are you active, passive, or both?  Will it be a place of solitude or dinner parties and barbeques?  Spend time in your yard standing around, sitting on the ground, or cloud-watching on a blanket.  This process will help you determine what you want to do long-term in the space.  After you have considered how you want the area to function, it's time to place the structures, walkways, and furniture.  One word - shopping!  Shop online, in catalogs, and at your local nursery.  Get an idea for what is available and if you aren't feeling your own personal vibe, make your own.  Bounds of information and "Do IT Yourself" kits are available. 
 
Now, you have the basic layout of your garden.  Next, it's time for the planting plan.  Consider placing at least a few evergreens in each area for structure and winter interest.  Don't forget the vertical element as well.  Tall skinny evergreens help create rooms and overhead canopies provide shade and comfort.  Once the bones are in place, you can add everyone's favorite - color!  If you're a novice, I recommend, visiting your garden center once or twice a season to get an idea of what's available and what you like.  Take notes as you are shopping and sketch them in when you get back to your plan.  It's smart to take your time and not rush through a design.  Give yourself the time to turn your garden into a year round place of change.  Remember, your garden is ever evolving, as are you.  Have fun figuring it all out!
 
Plant Spotlight - Drift Roses
From the same people who developed Knock Out Roses, comes Drift Roses.  They are right in between full-size groundcover roses and miniatures.  They are low maintenance, disease resistant and drought tolerant.  Like the Knock Out Roses, Drift Roses are prolific repeat bloomer.  They brighten up border, fill in empty spaces, and spread delicately.  There are seven varieties ranging from white to hot pink.  Plant in full sun for spring to frost blooms.