A lack of maintenance can mask the potential of even the most promising of outdoor spaces. Weeds, deteriorating hardscapes, and overgrown shrubbery can drastically spoil the look of a landscape, and quickly become overwhelming when left unattended. This residence was the perfect example of this. Boasting generous grounds and an idyllic west side location, the surrounding landscape had sadly fallen into poor condition following years of underinvestment. Fortunately, the home’s brand new owners, a young couple native to Ann Arbor, saw its potential and decided to give it a much-needed makeover.
When we arrived at the property both the front and back areas were completely overgrown with weeds and invasive groundcovers. A large lawn took up most of the rear, offering little in the way of useable space for the young couple and a substantial amount of ongoing maintenance to make their lives difficult. In place of the overgrown yard, the couple wanted to create a thoughtful, pollinator-friendly space that could boost the curb appeal of their home and serve as a lush, low-maintenance oasis.
We began by excavating and replacing the soil in the existing planting beds, removing weeds, and creating a blank canvas for fresh plantings. We also expanded the planting beds in the front of the property, lengthening them to frame the property line and sidewalk. The lawn area was reduced to a small central area, creating a place for the eye to rest in contrast with the rich plantings. In practical terms, this also reduced the maintenance requirements for the beds. With the layout in place, we created a series of plantings inspired by master plant designer Piet Oudolf. These were made up of a dense mix of grasses including Karl Foerster and Moorflame Molinia, and perennials including Baptisia, Craigieburn Wood Spurge, and summer-blooming Blue Fortune Agastache.
In place of the overgrown yard, the couple created a thoughtful, pollinator-friendly space that boosts the curb appeal of their home and serves as a lush, low-maintenance oasis.
