Quick tip: Plant Native for Low-Maintenance Color: For quick curb appeal that lasts, incorporate some Pennsylvania native plants into front beds. Native perennials and shrubs not only thrive in our climate (giving you reliable color year after year), but they also require less fuss. The DCNR notes that native species are adapted to local soils and climate and once established “will persist through frost and drought” with minimal water or care. For example, black-eyed Susans or purple coneflower can provide bright blooms and handle zone 6b conditions easily. This means more curb appeal without constant replanting or pampering.
As a first-time homeowner, few things make as immediate an impact as updating your landscape. Whether you’ve just moved in or are looking to refresh your property, thoughtful landscaping not only creates a welcoming atmosphere but also significantly increases your home’s value. According to the National Association of Realtors, a well-maintained landscape can add up to 10% to your home’s value – making it one of the most cost-effective improvements you can make.
At Country Farms, we regularly work with new homeowners who want to enhance their outdoor spaces without breaking the bank or committing to massive renovation projects. We’ve compiled our top ten landscape updates that deliver maximum impact with minimal effort.
The Importance of Curb Appeal
Enhancing Home Value
First impressions matter, especially when it comes to your home. Potential buyers often make decisions within seconds of seeing a property, making curb appeal a crucial factor in determining your home’s market value. Even if you’re not planning to sell soon, a thoughtfully designed landscape is an investment that appreciates over time as plants mature and outdoor spaces develop character.
Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere
Your landscape serves as the transition between the outside world and your private sanctuary. A well-designed entrance creates a sense of arrival and sets the tone for the entire property. Whether you prefer a formal, structured look or a more casual, naturalistic approach, your landscape should reflect your personal style while making guests feel welcome.
Key Landscape Updates
1. Fresh Landscape Design
Start with a cohesive landscape design that considers your home’s architecture and your lifestyle needs. Even simple design changes can transform your space:
- Define activity zones – Create distinct areas for relaxation, entertaining, and play.
- Establish focal points – Draw the eye with statement trees, garden art, or architectural features.
- Balance hardscape and softscape – Incorporate both plant material and hardscape elements for visual interest.
For new homeowners, we recommend starting with a simple sketch of your property. Identify problem areas and opportunities, then develop a realistic plan you can implement in phases. Remember that successful landscape design balances aesthetics with functionality.
2. Effective Landscape Edging
Quick tip: Fresh Mulch and Edging – the Instant Tidy: A simple weekend update with big impact is refreshing your mulch and defining bed edges. Make sure to get quality mulch from a local supplier like Country Farms, and apply it correctly. Penn State Extension advises keeping mulch to 3-4 inches deep for a neat look that still lets plants breathe. Also, avoid piling mulch against tree trunks (no volcanoes!). A smooth edge between beds and lawn plus a coat of natural hardwood mulch gives a clean, professional appearance that boosts curb appeal immediately.
Clean, defined edges instantly elevate the appearance of any yard. Landscape edging creates visual boundaries while also serving practical purposes:
- Material options – Choose from stone, metal, concrete, or even natural trench edging to complement your style.
- Maintenance benefits – Prevent grass from invading beds and reduce trimming time with proper edging.
- Design opportunities – Use edging to create flowing lines that guide the eye through your landscape.
Well-executed edging is one of the most cost-effective improvements you can make. It signals attention to detail and gives beds a finished, professional appearance that stands out in any neighborhood.
3. Strategic Landscape Lighting
Quick tip: Add Landscape Lighting for Safety and Drama: While plants and mulch add daytime appeal, don’t forget nighttime curb appeal. A well-placed path light or uplight on a feature tree can make a home look warm and inviting after dark. According to local safety recommendations, lighting walkways and entries improves security (deterring trespassers) and prevents falls on your property. For a homeowner, installing a few low-voltage LED landscape lights is an easy but high-impact update – instantly boosting curb appeal by highlighting your new plantings and architecture in the evenings.
Extend your enjoyment of outdoor spaces and enhance security with thoughtful landscape lighting:
- Path lighting – Illuminate walkways for safety and visual appeal with low-voltage options.
- Accent lighting – Highlight architectural features, specimen plants, or garden art.
- Ambient lighting – Create atmosphere with string lights, lanterns, or moonlighting effects.
Today’s solar and LED options make landscape lighting more affordable and energy-efficient than ever. Even a modest lighting plan can dramatically transform your property’s nighttime appearance while providing practical benefits.
4. Incorporating Landscaping Rocks
Decorative stone adds texture, color, and permanence to your landscape design:
- Mulch alternative – Use gravel or decorative stone in beds for a low-maintenance alternative to wood mulch.
- Drainage solutions – Address wet areas with functional dry creek beds that double as design features.
- Focal elements – Incorporate specimen boulders as sculptural elements in your garden.
At Country Farms, we carry various decorative stones from river rock to mocha stone, providing options for every style and budget. Landscaping rocks require minimal maintenance while adding year-round structure to your outdoor spaces.
5. Seasonal Landscaping Considerations
Create a landscape that looks appealing throughout the year by planning for seasonal changes:
- Year-round interest – Include evergreens for winter structure alongside plants with seasonal color.
- Seasonal maintenance schedule – Plan key tasks for each season to keep your landscape looking its best.
- Flexible spaces – Design areas that function well regardless of weather conditions.
In our zone 6b climate, consider the dramatic seasonal shifts when selecting plants. Choose options that provide multiple seasons of interest, such as trees with spring flowers, summer shade, fall color, and winter form.
6. Upgraded Outdoor Living Space
Extend your living area outdoors with comfortable, functional spaces:
- Define gathering areas – Create conversation zones with thoughtful furniture placement.
- Add comfort elements – Incorporate shade, wind protection, and heat sources for extended seasonal use.
- Connect to indoor spaces – Ensure smooth transitions between your home and outdoor living areas.
Even simple improvements like refreshing patio furniture, adding container plants, or installing a pergola can transform underutilized yards into favorite gathering spaces.
7. Landscape Maintenance Tips
A beautiful landscape requires ongoing care, but smart planning can minimize maintenance demands:
- Time-saving strategies – Group plants with similar needs, install efficient irrigation, and choose appropriate materials.
- Seasonal checklists – Focus on preventative maintenance to avoid larger problems later.
- Professional assistance – Know when to call experts for specialized tasks like tree pruning or irrigation repair.
For new homeowners, prioritize establishing good maintenance routines early. Regular attention prevents small issues from becoming costly problems while keeping your landscape looking its best.
8. Sustainable Landscaping Practices
Environmentally conscious landscaping benefits both your property and the larger ecosystem:
- Water conservation – Choose drought-tolerant plants and efficient irrigation systems.
- Reduced chemical use – Adopt organic methods for pest management and soil health.
- Smart material choices – Select permeable pavements and sustainable building materials.
Sustainable practices not only reduce your environmental footprint but often decrease long-term maintenance costs. Many sustainable options, like rain gardens and bioswales, can also solve drainage problems while adding beauty to your property.
9. Utilizing Native Plants in Landscaping
Incorporate plants naturally adapted to our local conditions for easier care and environmental benefits:
- Reduced maintenance – Native plants generally require less water, fertilizer, and pest management.
- Wildlife support – Provide habitat and food sources for local birds, pollinators, and beneficial insects.
- Regional character – Create a sense of place that connects your landscape to the broader environment.
At Country Farms, we offer a wide selection of native perennials, shrubs, and trees suited to our climate. Native plant landscaping doesn’t mean a wild appearance – these plants can be incorporated into designs ranging from formal to naturalistic.
10. Attractive Landscape Features
Anchor your design with special elements that add personality and create focal points:
- Water features – Add the soothing sound and reflective qualities of water with fountains or ponds.
- Garden structures – Incorporate arbors, pergolas, or decorative fencing for vertical interest.
- Outdoor art – Express your style with sculptural elements, decorative containers, or artistic accents.
These statement pieces give your landscape character and provide anchors around which to build your design. At Country Farms, our selection of statuary and water features offers options for creating these distinctive touches.
Conclusion
Transforming your landscape doesn’t require a complete overhaul or substantial investment. By strategically implementing these ten updates, you can dramatically enhance your curb appeal while creating outdoor spaces that bring enjoyment for years to come.
Remember that successful landscaping is a journey rather than a destination. Start with a solid plan, implement changes in manageable phases, and allow your landscape to evolve as you become more familiar with your property and its needs.
We invite you to visit Country Farms to explore our extensive selection of plants, materials, and decorative elements for your landscape projects. Our team is available to provide guidance and suggestions tailored to your specific property conditions. Whether you’re looking for DIY solutions or professional landscape installation, we’re here to help you create outdoor spaces that welcome you home every day.
