Choosing what materials you want to work with is a major part of any home landscaping project. Landscaping materials include shrubs, trees, gravel and wood. These materials can help transform your space into the yard of your dreams, whether it’s a peaceful retreat or a formal garden.

As a trip to any garden store shows, there are landscape materials available to suit almost every taste and budget. The trick is choosing the best ones for your project. Purchasing the right landscaping supplies will help ensure that your project is a success.

Hardscape Materials

Hardscape includes any non-living element of your landscape. Some common hardscaping materials are:

• Bricks
• Concrete
• Glass
• Gravel
• Metal
• Plastic boards
• Stone
• Wood and lumber.

Hardscape materials are generally used to create features such as walkways, decks, patios and borders. While hardscape options for home landscapers was once relatively limited, it is now possible to purchase many types of hardscape materials. In addition, it’s now easier to find eco-friendly hardscape materials, such as recycled glass paving stones, salvaged metal, and recycled lumber.

Softscape Materials

“Softscape” is defined as any plant-based or living element of your landscape. Common softscape materials include:

• Flowers
• Groundcover
• Shrubs
• Trees.

Softscaping helps add color and visual interest to your landscape, and can soften the hard edges of fences, patios and walkways. When choosing softscaping, consider factors such as average rainfall in your area, drainage and sun exposure. Opting for plants that will thrive in your specific location will help you create a beautiful landscape that is easier to maintain.

Other Materials for Landscaping

Materials such as plants and stone can help create the bulk of your landscape. But you may consider using other elements to add visual interest and personality to your yard, such as:

• Arbors
• Containers and pots
• Fountains
• Gazebos
• Lighting
• Rain barrels
• Statues.

Things to Consider when Landscaping

Before making a final decision about what materials you want to include in your landscape, consider the following:

• Maintenance: If you would rather enjoy your landscape than work in it, choose low-maintenance landscaping materials.
• Theme: Choosing a theme is a major part of landscape planning. The garden materials you use should all complement each other.
• Wear-and-tear: Some materials will hold up better than others. If you will have small children in your yard, or live in a harsh climate, be sure to choose materials that will last.