White colonial house with brick pathway leading to black front door, American flag, and wreath decoration
Gardening Topics

Making the Case for a Front Landscape Makeover

Why a thoughtfully designed front landscape creates a lasting first impression.

You never get a second chance to make a first impression. That's why the front landscape deserves careful attention.

The most common problems I see are overgrown shrubs and plants installed too close to the house. Instead of enhancing the home's architecture, they hide it. While a few plants can sometimes be saved, a complete makeover often provides the best long-term solution.

Yews are a perfect example. They're one of the most commonly planted evergreens in our area, yet they eventually grow into tree-sized shrubs if left unchecked. Keeping them small requires constant pruning. Choosing plants that naturally fit the space creates a healthier, lower-maintenance landscape.

White two-story house with arched entryway, multiple windows, and landscaping along the front, covered with fallen leaves

Front walkways are another opportunity that's often overlooked. Many older concrete walks are too narrow to comfortably accommodate two people. A four-foot-wide walkway is both more welcoming and more functional.

A thoughtfully designed front landscape makeover does more than improve curb appeal — it creates the lasting impression of a home that is beautiful, well cared for, and inviting.