Happy New Year!

Welcome to 2013!  It's going to be a great year for gardening,   What are some of the trends for the coming year?  Let's take a look at What's In  for 2013 when it comes to your landscape.

Gardening for the Birds and Bess is In. 
Sure they're a fun addition to your garden.  Interesting to watch and add some color and beauty, too.  But there's a more important reason to play for the birds and bees.  Hummingbirds, butterflies and bess are responsible for many good crops and keep life growing.

Water in the Garden is In. 
It doesn't have to be a large water feature or a running stream, a bird bath, a small fountain or a tiny pond can make a difference.  Water is relaxing, it's pretty, it helps filter the air and it will attract animals and birds. 

Buying Local is In.
Using native plants in your landscape are cost-effective, easier to care for and also provide natural habitat for native wildlife.

Easier, lower maintenance Gardening is In.
 Low maintenance gardening allows you to enjoy the time you spend tending to your plants because you won't suddenly find yourself in the middle of an all weekend project.  It all comes down to what you plant.  Plants that don't require a ton of care. 

Eco-Chic Gardening is In. 
Green, sustainable and eco-friendly.

Curvaceous is In.
Curves are in when it , but sometimes a clean neat line still works.

Well Lit Gardens are In.
Not only does lighting set a mood, but it also extends the time you can spend working on your landscape.

Lighting It Up.

One important, but often overlooked, element of a complete landscape design is lighting.  When you make the decision to illuminate your landscape, you are using light for a variety of reasons.  Landscape lighting has functional and a visually stimulating purpose, with different goals.

Functional lighting is important in terms of landscape use and security.  When adding lighting for security, it's important to do so tastefully and with balance.  It should illuminate quietly, but provide safety and security to the homeowner and to guests navigating through your landscape in the evenings.   

When deciding where to place landscape lighting, consider targeting walkways, pathways, steps, water features, pools, decks, patios and any areas that might be considered a tripping hazard.  Keep the brightness low, but a touch of drama, done correctly, will make your landscape the envy of the block.

Pool lighting.  The right lighting is important in the pool and around the pool.

Subtle landscape lighting.

Dramatic lighting.

Simple, yet elegant light choice.

Walkway Rope Lighting

Deck Lighting

Patio Lighting

Whimsical and fun

Back porch lighting

Romantic nights