It takes a while to create the backyard of your dreams. The good news about this garden design is that it fits a variety of backyard situations, such as along your property line in place of a fence, or breaking up a large expanse of lawn. The even better news is that it can be done in stages as your energy, time and budget allow. It starts with a smaller, simple garden bed that can be expanded as you see fit. Fire up your imagination and recolor that blank space in your backyard with this collection of trees, shrubs, billowing grasses and bountiful blooms. Then let’s get practical. Turn the page to walk through what to do each year.
ONE
STAGE ONE
The first year is a lot more gruntwork than it is glamour. But making sure you’re correctly preparing your bed and planting the staple plants — the tree and shrubs — sets up your garden for success in the long run.
To begin, use flour or a garden hose to help you
