Improving the curb appeal of a home or business is one of the most popular ways to increase return on investment. For businesses, landscaping can draw more customers, and in residential spaces it can increase a home’s value. In fact, one Clemson University study found that landscaping can result in a return on investment greater than 100%. Landscape design in Pittsburgh is one way for business and homeowners to contribute to the character and beauty typical of the Steel City.

Pittsburgh landscaping presents the challenge typical of its region. Landscaping pittsburgh means planning for four very different seasons, all in one landscape design. There are some plants that do well for all seasons which should be considered, but an even more important aspect of landscaping in Pittsburgh has nothing to do with plant life. Since the growing season is relatively short, it is essential to have nonliving elements to any landscape design in the Mid Atlantic region.

Gardening

One option for gardening in any region is to pay close attention to choosing native plants. Native plants, the plants that grew naturally in the region before European settlement, have been growing and evolving Pittsburgh thousands of years and have adapted to the local soils and climate. For that reason, they are more likely to do well without as much care and attention. As an added bonus, many are very attractive and provide a sense of place. Native plants also provide an important component to the ecosystem, attracting birds and butterflies. Native to Pennsylvania and recommended for Pittsburgh landscaping are red and sugar maple trees, lanceleaf coreopsis, crimsoneyed rosemallow, wild blue phlox, and flame azalea among many others.

Hardscaping

Hardscaping involves the introduction of landscape design elements that wouldn’t occur naturally. Examples include benches, statues, rock gardens, and retaining walls. Retaining walls, designed to restrain soil to unnatural slopes can prevent tons of saturated soil from sliding away from a foundation or damaging the surrounding landscape. In fact, they legally have to be designed to ensure stability against overturning, sliding, excessive foundation pressure, and water uplift. Aside from performing these essential functions, they provide inviting seats and can increase the usability of sloped lawns by creating terraces. For a retaining wall Pittsburgh is an ideal location because of the snowy winters. Retaining walls can also keep snow pileup from damaging the surrounding landscape.

Landscaping adds an essential element to any property, increasing not only the value but the usability and enjoyment of outdoor spaces. Professional landscape design can be an excellent investment into both the value of a home and into the experience of the current tenant. More on this topic: www.wichmanlandscape.com

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