Have you ever wondered why some countries are gardening fanatics and others are not? Has it got anything to do with space or the need to feed a nation which would mean that any available ground is used as an essential requirement rather than for aesthetic pleasure?

Here in the UK, garden landscaping is becoming more sophisticated with higher expectations, as more people watch inspirational programmes and read information produced for TV and magazines.

Landscaping and design take both mathematical and visual skills which not all people have mastered. Some people have a natural artistic skill and as well a naturalistic ability to properly proportion and balance visual subjects.

Without the basic skills to design and build your own landscape garden there is the risk that you’ll join the ranks of others with well intentioned piles of garden landscaping supplies that languish in overgrown bramble patches.

There is a plethora of inspirational gardening ideas and publications to assist the avid and competent gardener to achieve their goals including DIY landscaping ‘How To guides’, books and literature to help create garden landscapes.

There are suggested garden design layouts as well as examples of appealing images of hard landscaping and associated planting schemes. This information is also readily available online and also includes garden design software packages that allow the user to ‘play’ around with suitable ideas before taking the plunge.

Garden landscaping is by no means a cheap occupation and it is wise to be as prepared as possible.

You can find local garden designers and before any site meeting, you will obviously want to take into consideration their experience and take up any references from previous customers – there are many firms who convincingly tell you that they specialise in laying paths, patios and paving but when you discover at the end of the project that water does not, in fact drain uphill, you are stuck with the angst and expense of rectifying an uneven and poorly laid surface.

Once you have researched this area, you can then arrange an initial site meeting to discuss your thoughts and to get some initial feedback on the process ahead.

It is an exciting time to share your notes including ‘wish list’ pictures of materials you wish to use such as timber decking, brick for paths and paving, natural stone for patios, as well as plants you think would suit your position and soil type. During your meeting let them know your budget (allowing for a degree of overspend); ask to see their portfolio and get a quote.

Whether the job is laying a lawn, erecting a timber decking area or building a pergola, the same process should apply; always look to secure at least a couple of quotes for garden landscaping services and check out examples of previous work. Most good landscapers recognise the need to build up their portfolios and automatically take ‘before’, ‘during’ and ‘completion’ photos and also include letters from happy clients to show prospective clients.

Landscaping design varies from the small gardens to the larger park and country homes projects. It goes without saying that you’ll want to employ the services of the most suitable landscaping firm for the project.

In some situations, the input of a land surveyor is required to offer advice on planning issues, property development including construction engineering, the natural environment and urban infrastructure

A good landscaper will have the expertise to oversee both hard and soft landscaping phases of any projects, with the relevant qualifications and experience to match.

Soft landscaping includes placement of topsoil, plants, shrubs and trees as well as the positioning of any architectural structures, such as arbores, gazebos, and trellises.

If you do the planting yourself, remember the work involved in garden maintenance and bedding these plants in for the longer term. If watering during dry periods is overlooked, your precious plants will struggle to survive. If your landscaper has carried out the planting, they will most likely leave you with some advice and homework to keep the plants at their best.

SUDS
Increasing urbanisation and rapid run-off have put a tremendous strain on conventional storm water drainage systems. Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) are increasingly being used to address these issues. There are a variety of landscaping products to consider especially if you are looking to replace your garden with a new driveway.

• The British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) was established in 1972 as the UK’s representative trade association for the landscaping sector. Our membership comprises interior and exterior landscapers and designers, grounds maintenance contractors, and companies supplying industry-related products and services. And they all have one thing in common: a commitment to delivering professional excellence by continually raising standards across the industry.

• The Landscape Institute (LI)
  The Landscape Institute represents 6000 members who include chartered landscape architects, academics, scientists and students. Our members work for a range of organisations such as local authorities, government agencies and in private practice. They are involved in a broad range of tasks including master planning, environmental assessment, public consultation and design. The Institute provides services to assist members including support and promotion of the work of landscape architects; information and guidance to the public and industry about the specific expertise offered by those in the profession; and training and educational advice to students and professionals looking to build upon their experience.