Want to increase your home’s value by up to 20%? Smart landscaping can help. From native plants to outdoor lighting, these 10 tips will enhance curb appeal, reduce maintenance, and even cut energy costs. Here’s what you need to know:

• Native Plants: Choose low-maintenance Maryland natives like Eastern Redbud and Black-Eyed Susan.
• Stone Walkways & Patios: Add durable features with materials like bluestone or granite.
• Outdoor Lighting: Use LED spotlights, step lights, and motion sensors for safety and aesthetics.
• Healthy Lawn: Pick the right grass type (e.g., Tall Fescue) and follow proper mowing, watering, and fertilization practices.
• Outdoor Living Areas: Build functional spaces with pergolas, fire pits, and weather-resistant materials.
• Water Features: Install fountains, rain gardens, or ponds to add visual interest and manage stormwater.
• Tree Placement: Plant strategically for shade, energy savings, and privacy.
• Sharp Garden Borders: Use tools like edgers and durable materials like stone or timber.
• Easy-Care Plants: Opt for drought-tolerant options like switchgrass or nandina.
• Fix Drainage Issues: Solve problems with French drains, rain gardens, or grading adjustments.

Quick Comparison of Landscaping Investments

Why it matters: Well-designed landscaping not only boosts your home’s value but also saves on energy costs, supports local ecosystems, and enhances your outdoor living experience. Start with one or more of these tips to see long-term benefits.

Tips to Boost Your Home’s Value | Landscaping

1. Choose Maryland Native Plants

Enhance your landscape with plants native to Maryland that thrive naturally and require less upkeep, helping to lower maintenance costs.

Start with native trees like Eastern Redbud and Flowering Dogwood for a beautiful touch. Another great option is Serviceberry, which features white flowers in spring and orange-red leaves in fall. Plus, it’s a great substitute for the invasive Bradford callery pear.

For ground cover, try these combinations:

• Foundation plantings: Pair Black Chokeberry with Smooth Hydrangea for a low-maintenance, attractive base.
• Garden beds: Add color and attract pollinators with Black-Eyed Susan and Butterfly Weed.
• Border areas: Use Little Bluestem and Yellow Indiangrass for texture and movement.

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) is another excellent choice. It grows 3–7 feet tall, spreads 2–3 feet wide, and has deep roots (5–6 feet), making it perfect for stabilizing slopes. For the best results, consider these cultivars:

• ‘Cloud Nine’ for height
• ‘Heavy Metal’ for its metallic-blue foliage
• ‘Northwind’ for a strong vertical look
• ‘Shenandoah’ for its stunning fall colors

These native plants not only beautify your property but also support local ecosystems.

2. Install Stone Walkways and Patios

Once you’ve added native plants to your garden, take it a step further with stone walkways and patios. These features not only enhance the look of your outdoor space but can also increase your home’s value by up to 15%. Pairing well-designed hardscapes with native flora creates a balanced and inviting outdoor environment.

Choose the Right Stone
Pick materials that can handle Maryland’s freeze-thaw weather while matching your home’s style:

Cost Breakdown
For a standard 5’x20′ stone walkway, expect to pay $1,600–$3,500. Combined material and installation costs range from $7–$18 per square foot for materials and $9–$17 per square foot for labor. Don’t forget to factor in base materials and permits, which typically add $200–$300.

Design Tips for Added Appeal
According to the Fall 2021 HomeLight survey, "Outdoor space was the third-most-prioritized feature for homebuyers". To maximize value, consider using curved, wide, and permeable pavers. Smoothly connect indoor and outdoor areas, and include lighting for both safety and ambiance.

Maintenance Musts
Keep your stone features in top shape by sealing them regularly, promptly removing weeds, sweeping frequently, and tackling stains as soon as they appear. Professional installation is key to ensuring proper drainage, a stable foundation, and precise stone cutting, giving your outdoor space a polished, long-lasting finish.

3. Add Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor lighting not only enhances your landscaping but also increases your property’s value. It improves curb appeal and boosts safety, reducing nighttime crime by up to 39%.

Consider a mix of lighting fixtures to create the right impact:

Other options like bollard lights and string lights can make pathways more inviting and add a festive touch.

Layer your lighting for maximum effect:

• Illuminate pathways and steps to ensure safety.
• Highlight architectural details for added charm.
• Use motion sensor lights at entry points for both security and energy savings.

Focus on key areas:

• Use warm lighting near entry points to discourage intruders.
• Light up pathways and stairs to prevent accidents.
• Showcase landscape features to add visual appeal.

For the best results, hire a professional to install the lights. They’ll ensure proper voltage, weatherproofing, and ideal fixture placement for long-lasting performance.

Opt for LED fixtures with timers, smart controls, or photocell sensors to save energy and extend the lifespan of your lights. Regularly clean the fixtures, replace bulbs, and adjust angles to keep everything looking and working its best.

4. Maintain a Healthy Lawn

After improving lighting and hardscaping, keeping your lawn in great shape is another way to enhance your home’s curb appeal. A healthy, well-kept lawn can make a big difference in how your property looks and even increase its value.

Choose the Right Grass Type

Picking the right type of grass for your lawn is crucial. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

Tall fescue is a great all-around choice. It handles drought well and thrives in temperatures between 60–75°F. If you have shady spots, fine fescue works well, while Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass are better for areas with heavy foot traffic.

Proper Mowing Techniques

Mowing your lawn correctly can cut down on weeds and diseases by as much as 80%. Here’s how to do it:

• Tall fescue: Keep it 3–4 inches high in summer and 2.5 inches in fall.
• Kentucky bluegrass: Mow to 2.5–3 inches in summer and 2 inches in fall.
• Fine fescue: Maintain a height of 3–4 inches in summer and 3 inches in fall.

Smart Watering Practices

Watering deeply but less often helps grow strong roots. Cool-season grasses typically need about 2 inches of water per week in spring, while warm-season grasses require about 1 inch. Watering early in the morning helps reduce evaporation and lowers the risk of disease.

Strategic Fertilization

To keep your lawn looking its best:

• Apply 0.9 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet around mid-May if the grass looks dull.
• Fertilize before November 15th in the fall.
• Avoid fertilizing between November 15th and March 1st.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Test your soil’s pH before adding lime or fertilizer. Aim for a pH of 6.4–6.8.
• Replace your mower blades every 4–6 weeks to ensure clean cuts.
• Leave grass clippings on the lawn (a practice called grasscycling). This can reduce your fertilizer needs by 25%.

5. Build an Outdoor Living Area

Adding a functional outdoor space is a great way to increase your home’s usable square footage and boost its value. In Maryland, outdoor living areas have proven to enhance both home value and entertainment options.

To create a well-designed outdoor living space that blends with your landscape, consider these key features:

• Louvered pergola for shade and weather protection
• Fire or water features to add ambiance
• Durable paving that looks great and lasts
• Outdoor lighting for evening use
• Bar-top kitchen with cooking amenities

These elements not only improve the look of your space but ensure it holds up well against Maryland’s changing weather.

Choose Durable, Weather-Resistant Materials

Using materials that can withstand Maryland’s climate is essential. Some top choices include:

• Porcelain Pavers: Known for their durability, they resist stains, fading, and freeze-thaw cycles.
• Majestic White Veneer: Offers an elegant finish with long-lasting strength.
• Trex Transcend Decking: A low-maintenance option that maintains its beauty over time.

Real-Life Examples

In Lutherville Timonium, a resort-style backyard showcases a bar-top kitchen equipped with a grill, hibachi, pizza oven, and green egg. It also includes practical amenities like an oversized sink, refrigerators, and an ice maker.

For year-round comfort, consider adding outdoor heaters, a TV, and durable seating. A project in Gambrills highlights how over 60 strategically placed lights transformed a paver patio with a fire and water feature into a warm, inviting space after dark.

A versatile outdoor living area not only enhances your daily life but also adds long-term value to your property.

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6. Add Water Features

Adding water features can completely transform landscapes in Maryland while also increasing property value by making your home more visually appealing.

Types of Water Features and Their Benefits

Water features can serve various purposes in your outdoor space:

• Fountains and Waterfalls
  These create eye-catching focal points, bring soothing sounds, and work well in both large and compact areas. They also enhance your home’s curb appeal.
• Rain Gardens
  These are excellent for managing stormwater runoff while adding natural beauty and supporting local wildlife.

"Water features bring landscapes to life, introducing pleasing sound and movement."

Cost of Water Features

Here’s a breakdown of typical costs for professionally installed water features:

When planning, think about the location, maintenance needs, local regulations, and how to care for it throughout the year.

Tech Tools for Planning

Maryland homeowners can take advantage of the Rain Garden app from The Center for Land Use Education and Research (CLEAR). This app offers:

• A garden sizing calculator
• Soil drainage mapping
• Cost estimation
• Installation guidance
• Help selecting plants

Using tools like this, combined with regular maintenance, can make your water feature a standout element in your landscape.

Professional cleaning services for ponds start at $990, and seasonal maintenance plans are available to ensure your water feature stays in great shape year-round.

7. Place Trees for Maximum Benefit

Planting trees in the right spots can increase your property’s value, cut down on energy costs, and make your home look more inviting. Choosing the right trees and placing them wisely is key.

Optimal Tree Placement

For the best results, place your main shade tree at the southwest corner of your property. This helps block intense afternoon sunlight, reducing cooling costs in the summer.

• Keep large trees at least 5 feet away from sidewalks
• Avoid planting directly on property lines
• Be mindful of underground utilities when selecting planting spots
• Consider the tree’s mature size to ensure it fits the space

Best Trees for Maryland Properties

Here are some great tree options for Maryland properties:

These trees not only enhance your property but also require minimal upkeep.

Safety and Utility Considerations

When planting trees, keep these important safety tips in mind:

1. Contact Miss Utility
   Before digging, call Miss Utility to locate underground utilities. This free service helps avoid costly damage and ensures safe planting.
2. Plan for Growth
   Think about how big the tree will get. Avoid planting in spots where its branches could overhang, roots could damage infrastructure, or growth could block views or interfere with power lines.
3. Mix It Up
   Use a variety of tree species for year-round appeal. For example, Maryland native American Holly offers privacy, keeps its foliage all year, and is resistant to deer.

Professional Guidance

For expert advice, consider reaching out to a certified arborist. They can help with:

• Assessing your soil
• Recommending the best tree species for your property
• Proper planting techniques
• Creating a long-term care plan

Smart tree placement can save money on energy bills, increase your property’s value, and reduce maintenance headaches. It’s a decision that pays off in more ways than one.

8. Create Sharp Garden Borders

Clear, well-defined borders can make a big difference in your garden. They not only give your outdoor space a polished look but also make maintenance easier.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Here are some tools and materials to help you create clean garden edges:

With these tools ready, you can start creating borders that enhance the look of your garden.

Steps to Install Garden Borders

1. Plan Your Border

Use a garden hose or mason line to outline where your border will go. Dig a trench about 4–6 inches deep for flat areas. On slopes, dig deeper (8–12 inches) to prevent erosion and keep the border stable.

2. Choose and Install Edging

Pick materials that fit your garden’s style:

• Timber: Choose durable woods like cedar or cypress for a classic look.
• Stone: Perfect for a timeless, natural appearance.
• Metal: Great for a sleek, modern vibe.
• Plastic: An affordable option, though less durable over time.

Carefully place your chosen edging in the trench and secure it for stability.

Tips to Keep Borders Looking Great

• Trim and mow regularly to keep edges clean.
• Use a weed trimmer for precise touch-ups.
• Pull out weeds or grass that creep into the border.
• Add a fresh layer of mulch each year to reinforce the border and keep it looking tidy.

Extra Touches for Durability

For longer-lasting borders, lay down landscape fabric under your edging to block weeds. Adding a layer of sand or gravel beneath permanent borders can also improve drainage and stability. These small steps can make a big difference over time.

9. Select Easy-Care Plants

Choosing plants that require little maintenance not only saves time but also keeps your yard looking great all year. After picking native and low-maintenance plants, focus on options that thrive with minimal care.

Best Low-Maintenance Plants for Maryland

Native Plants That Work Well

Native plants in Maryland are a great choice because they’re already suited to the local environment. They’re easy to care for and bring both beauty and ecological benefits to your yard.

Keep Things Interesting Year-Round

For a garden that looks good in every season, mix plants with different features:

• Boxwood provides structure and greenery all year.
• Nandina adds consistent foliage.
• Add seasonal color with hydrangeas, salvia, and purple coneflower.

Easy Ground Cover Options

Ground covers are perfect for filling spaces with minimal effort. Liriope grows well in sun or shade, while catmint adds blue-violet blooms from spring to fall. Both are drought-tolerant and simple to manage.

Simple Care Tips

• Deadhead Black-Eyed Susans to encourage more blooms.
• Keep an eye on spreading plants like switchgrass to prevent them from overtaking your garden.
• Group plants with similar water needs to make irrigation more efficient.
• Add mulch yearly to cut down on weeds and keep soil moist.

Make sure to plant based on sunlight, soil type, and the mature size of each plant to get the best results.

10. Fix Drainage Issues

Poor drainage can damage your foundation and lower your property value. Addressing these problems not only protects your home but also keeps your landscape in good shape. Just like choosing the right plants or adding hardscaping boosts curb appeal, solving drainage issues safeguards your investment.

Common Warning Signs

• Puddles that linger after rain
• Soggy spots in the yard
• Water leaking into the basement
• Soil eroding near the foundation
• Plants struggling with waterlogged roots
• Gutters and downspouts getting clogged

Grading Basics You Should Know

• The ground should slope away from the foundation by at least 3%.
• Patios and walkways need a 1/4 inch per foot slope.
• Within 10 feet of the foundation, aim for a 1/2 inch per foot grade.
• Between the house and the street, maintain a 1-3% pitch.

Practical Solutions for Drainage

• French Drains: Use underground pipes to move water away from problem areas, keeping the soil drier and your foundation safe.
• Downspout Extensions: Extend downspouts at least 5 feet from the foundation or connect them to underground systems for better water control.
• Natural Drainage Features: Combine functionality with aesthetics:

Once water is redirected, improving the soil’s drainage capacity is the next step.

Improving Soil Drainage

• Mix in organic materials like compost.
• Loosen compacted soil to allow better water flow.
• Add mulch to help with water absorption.
• Build berms or channels to guide water where it should go.

Tips for Ongoing Maintenance

• Clean out gutters at least once per season.
• Check grades and drainage systems monthly for issues.
• Repair erosion as soon as it appears.
• Keep catch basins free of debris.

Staying on top of drainage maintenance not only protects your home’s foundation but also ensures your landscape remains in great condition. A well-thought-out drainage plan preserves both your property and its value.

Conclusion

From choosing native plants to implementing smart drainage systems, every tip in this guide contributes to improving your property’s appeal. Thoughtful landscaping can increase your home’s value by up to 20% and deliver returns of 15% or more when you invest just 5% of your home’s value.

Here’s a breakdown of how different landscaping investments can impact value:

These numbers highlight the financial advantages of making smart landscaping choices.

Beyond financial returns, landscaping offers practical perks. Strategically planted trees can cut heating costs by 20–40% by serving as windbreaks. A well-designed drainage system protects your home’s foundation, avoiding expensive repairs. Native plants reduce maintenance costs and support local ecosystems, while professional hardscaping turns outdoor spaces into areas perfect for relaxation and entertainment.

To get the most out of your investment, consider professional design services. Experts combine technical know-how with creativity to enhance both the look and value of your property. In fact, survey data shows that design sophistication is a leading factor in perceived home value. By incorporating smart strategies like native plantings and efficient hardscaping, you can elevate your home’s curb appeal and market value.

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