DIY GARDEN IN RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA

This garden was designed by me and installed DIY by the homeowner. She first started killing the lawn by covering the entire area with cardboard and letting it sit for about 2-3 months.

Then she called me to do a design that consists of a flagstone path, a dry river bed and some drought tolerant plants. There is no irrigation system as the homeowner will be hand watering. The garden is small enough that I don't see that being an issue.

HOW A DESIGNER PLANS A DESIGN

In this video I share with you the basic ways in which a designer plans a design.  First is all about site analysis.  This is where, the designer takes account of the existing site and what is currently happening.  Secondly, is measuring the site and creating a site plan.  This step is important as no contractor can create an accurate quote without a detailed to scale plan.  

Third is drawing concept designs.  You should get at least two options to consider.  Options of what is possible for your garden.  This is followed by the fourth step of creating mood boards.  Mood boards show you images of ideas for your garden and what is possible.  What plants is the designer proposing to use.  This is a time where you will meet with the designer to go over the concept drawings and hash everything out.  

Lastly, is the final detailed drawings.  Drawings that any licensed contractor can quote and install from.  Drawings, that your HOA (if you have one) can review and approve.  I will make detailed videos of each step in the next coming months.  

5 BACK YARD IDEAS TO CONSIDER

Last week I shared with you 5 ideas to consider for your front yard.  This week I share with you 5 ideas for your back yard.  These ideas are not firm.  Just things to consider when you are renovating your garden.  I had dozens of ideas but I had rein myself in and only narrow it down to just 5.  Regardless of these ideas and anything I share with you, you have to have an idea of what you are looking for.  It's always recommended to at the least have an area to entertain.  That could be entertaining a group of friends or just a few.  

I would also suggest considering what the space will look like at different times during the day.  Do you need to be able to see clearly at night?  Perhaps some good lighting might be nice.