Improving your home's curb appeal doesn't require a guest appearance on a "makeover" TV show.
Magnolia Garden Center's experts have these tips to share.
Look at the 'before'
Before you begin any project, stand back at the curb and take a fresh and objective look at the parking strip, the walkways and driveway, the front-yard fence, wall or rockery, your lawn and foundation plants and the front door and porch. If you see the need for improvement, ask yourself, "What's most important?" and "What can I invest in time and money to make some changes?"
Don't overlook the curb
If your parking strip is devoid of fresh and healthy-looking plants, usually grass, consider an alternative. Small, curbside gardens have become very popular as a replacement to a struggling lawn.
Remember, choose plants that hold up to traffic and neighborhood pets. Also, select plants that are primarily evergreen. You don't want to lose that lush, green look during the winter.
Structures: repair or replace
Walls or fences that are in good shape contribute to a well- groomed look. Paint, repair and/or replace those that detract.
A dignified death
It's OK to remove plants, especially ones that have enjoyed a long, long life. Rockeries filled to overflowing with shrubs that are nearly as old as the house often look tired and need replacing.
Additionally, old foundation plantings, especially those that cover the windows or hit the house, really must go. It can be a big job, but the effect on curb appeal will be dramatic.
Garden centers have hundreds of new plants suitable for any new look you want to achieve. Evergreen plants will look great year-round, and there are many that flower or are fragrant. Try something else instead of rhodies and camellias!
Decorating the doorway
The front porch, the doorstep and the doorway offer many opportunities for personal expression and improved curb appeal. Enliven your entry with plants in containers, small decorative accessories, even a small fountain. Change items and plants seasonally.
Go ahead, it won't cost much to make your entry look like a photo from a glossy magazine!
Eliminate bad concrete
Old sidewalks and driveways are often ignored, but they can downgrage your other efforts for improved curb appeal.
Concrete continues to be the practical and affordable material when replacing cracked walks and drives. But boring, gray slabs have given way to colored, stained and stamped concrete.
The new process can simulate many different looks, from charming brick to elegant Pennsylvania bluestone. Intricate patterns, designs and color in your concrete will add character and individuality.
While considering walkway and driveway replacement, consider changing the route to your front door, adding auxiliary paths or widening the driveway.
Ask for help
Garden and landscape designers can assist with helping both plan and execute your curb appeal project. The Magnolia Garden Center, 3213 W. Smith St., offers free, 20-minute in-store landscaping consultations by appointment (284-1161 or maggarden@aol.com).
Cindy Combs owns Cindy Combs Consulting. She can be reached at 285-1143.
[[In-content Ad]]
