Archive for Low Maintenance Landscape Examples

Portland Hillside Landscape Designer Carol Lindsay WM

Native Plants and Functional Backyard Design for a Steep Hillside

Posted by Carol 
· January 22, 2025 

Taming the slope for a family that loves to be in their back yard!

Imagine walking into your own lush, forested oasis, where every corner is alive with the buzz of pollinators and the chirping of native birds. If you value sustainability, desire to sequester carbon, and want a landscape that thrives with native flora and fauna, then you’ve found the right landscape designer to bring your vision to life.

Take, for example, Ben and Naja, who were eager to transform their Portland hillside property. Though their home had stunning front-facing windows for sunsets, the backyard posed a challenge with its intimidating slope. Nevertheless, their love for the outdoors drove them to find a solution.

Before our landscape design process ivy was removed but the steep slope remained difficult to navigate and was not inviting....at all.
Before our landscape design process ivy was removed but the steep slope remained difficult to navigate and was not inviting….at all.

Eco Friendly Backyard Dream

Dedicated to their eco-friendly backyard dream, Ben and Naja contacted Bird Alliance of Oregon to learn what it would take to earn a Backyard Habitats Certification for their property. Next they contacted me, Carol Lindsay, Landscape Design in a Day.  They wanted someone who could think about all the needs of their large property and create a custom landscape plan they could install. While they waited for our design day they removed more invasive plant species with determination, a testament to their dedication to crafting a restorative woodland garden.

When I first met them, these goals became ours:

  • Harnessing their carpentry skills, our design would center on environmentally sustainable materials like juniper wood and low-water native plants.
  • Crafting cozy, inviting spaces for relaxation and entertainment.
  • Improving the accessibility of their third-acre sloping property in SW Portland.
  • Designing a serene hammock retreat, nestled in the woods yet conveniently close to the house, and…that could double as a firepit area.
  • Establishing pathways that seamlessly connect the front yard to the new backyard seating area and woodlands beyond, ensuring easy maintenance access to control invasive species.  The existing mature trees and native soil were just waiting for liberation from invasive weeds.

Locally-Sourced Juniper Wood Retaining Wall

The transformation began with a forest patio integrated into the hillside near their back door deck. We used locally-sourced juniper wood, crafted retaining walls that doubled as seating instead of using concrete. This patio space enjoys cool shade in the afternoons and sunlight in the morning.

Since their existing deck is not hospitable in the afternoons, our second seating area allowed more outdoor living in the summer than they had ever had.

The first phase integrates the existing deck up into the woods with a series of steps and a wide sitting wall that also retains the hillside.
Before our design process the side yard was unattractive and difficult to use especially when it was raining and muddy.
The design of the steep stairs has sloped tread area to make the stairs less visually formidable and comfortable to use. Native plants adorn the side planting areas.  Stair risers are juniper wood.

Environmental Backyard Landscape Design Results:

Nature Trail and Pathways

The once-steep and unusable side yard was reimagined into an accessible, inviting area. It’s truly beautiful and was a tremendous amount of work. Count those stairs; every single one was installed by our clients. With a labor of love and assistance from family (talented fathers helped), Ben, Naja, and their daughter hauled 2.5 tons of materials, proving that professional construction wasn’t necessary for this project.  Naja, showcasing her impressive work boots, even removed a large stump single-handedly.

We (Alana Chau) designed a nature trail leading to the top of the property, enhancing the experience with over 100 native plants all species (no cultivars that can confuse pollinators), carefully placed in their correct planting spot.

A section of woodland path near the top of our client’s sloped backyard with native plants.

Visiting the Completed Design Installation

Select the very best grade of juniper wood to have it last 30 years without rotting.

Two years later we set up a visit with our clients to see the results.  The landscape plantings have matured beautifully; it’s heartwarming to see the patio, walls, and forest surroundings work so well for this family’s backyard.  And also to hear how happy they are using their backyard. 

The hammock patio, initially designed for multiple use, is predominantly a peaceful hammock haven used daily by Naja.

Native Plants Supply Wildlife Friendly Environment

The hundreds of native plants have flourished, with the exception of our original choice for a privacy shrub, Oregon Wax Myrtle, which we anticipate will grow denser with time.  The enchanting stroll up through the matured native plant garden reveals abundant wildlife, from busy chickadees and juncos to the surprising resident, an ermine, who has claimed its territory with a charming boldness.  Photos that Ben shared with us show the ermine either smiling or showing its teeth–we will go with smiling.  They are close to qualifying for the silver Backyard Habitats Certification with most of invasive plants banished.

After photo of our landscape design and our clients thoughtful installation was completed. A mix of native and native adjacent plants soften the steps and seating areas of the new back yard. Carol Lindsay seated on the wide juniper retaining wall.
After photo of our landscape design and our clients thoughtful installation was completed. A mix of native and native adjacent plants soften the steps and seating areas of the new back yard. Carol Lindsay seated on the wide juniper retaining wall.

Transform Your Property

Working with and helping clients like Ben and Naja, who are committed to combating climate change and supporting native wildlife, is truly rewarding. Designing a landscape that invites both critter and human relaxation requires expertise and passion. If you’re ready to transform your property into an environmentally conscious haven, Call me 503 223 2426 or use my contact form.  You will hear back from me quickly. 

Let’s discuss your dream landscape to support humans and our wildlife partners.

Categories : Garden Tips, Gardening Green, Low Maintenance Landscape Examples, Native Plants, No lawn back yard, outdoor living
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Colorful Flowering Plants for Portland Landscape Designs: Geum (aka Avens)

Posted by Carol 
· December 18, 2024 
A warm peach-colored geum flower

Brighten Your Portland Landscape with Colorful Orange Flowers – Geum (Avens)

If you’re looking to add lively colors to your garden, let me introduce you to Geum, also known as Avens. This charming perennial bursts with vibrant blooms ranging from soft yellows, pumpkin and peaches to fiery oranges and scarlets, making it a sought-after choice among my Portland landscape design clients this year.

The Appeal of Geum in Landscape Design

I love incorporating Geum into my designs because it’s as easy to grow as it is pleasing to the eye. There are plenty of cultivated varieties to choose from, with color palettes spanning from subtle peaches to bright scarlet. Available in both low, path-edging sizes and taller 24-inch varieties, Geum is popular right now, especially with the recent introduction of hot orange and melon-hued cultivars that thrive in full sun.  This plant is also a great addition to pollinator friendly planting plans.

Some of my favorites include the sterile variety ‘Totally Tangerine’ and the sun-scorch resistant ‘Starkers Magnificum.‘ Other notable mentions are ‘Lemoncello,’ ‘Firestorm,’ ‘Mai Tai,’ and ‘Sangria.’ Each offers a unique splash of color to your garden.

Choosing Companion Plants

Pairing Geum with the right companions can make or break its beauty in your garden. Lavender makes an excellent partner due to its contrasting leaf color and shape. Avoid planting Geum next to Black Eyed Susan,  as their foliage can look too similar.  Tip: Consider using ornamental grasses to visually separate them.

Care and Maintenance Tips for Geum

While Geum is relatively low maintenance, informed care can go a long way in keeping it thriving. Plan for regular irrigation, especially if the plant is in full sun. Yearly garden mulching is beneficial, while fertilizer is not typically required. Deadheading is essential to prolong the blooming period and keep your Geum looking its best. If you don’t deadhead the plant will still look great but not as colorful for as long.

Geum in North Portland Garden

As for dividing your Geum, the new sterile varieties don’t typically require it. However, if you notice reduced flowering, woody stems, or overly clumped plants, it’s time to divide and conquer! This can also be a great way to propagate more plants for your garden.

Keeping Those Blooms Coming

Interested in extended flowering? Go for sterile varieties, as they channel more energy into blooming rather than seed production. In terms of growing conditions, differentiate between sun-loving Geums and those that prefer partial shade or dappled light.

Regular deadheading is a must for maintaining long flower production. Remove the spent flower heads just above the next bud on the stem. If your plant looks a bit tired, and you don’t want to deadhead each small flower, presto!  Cutting it back to the ground – ideally around mid-June in Portland – can rejuvenate its appearance for the season, though it typically won’t bloom again that year.

Watch and Learn

Seed heads can be snipped off to prolong the color show of Geum in Portland garden

I recommend checking out a video from 2023 that demonstrates deadheading techniques. Toward the end, you’ll also learn about Geum varieties suited for woodland or shaded areas versus those thriving in sunny spots.

Ready to spice up your garden with Geum or need help with landscape design? Feel free to reach out to me, your Portland landscape design partner, and let’s transform your garden into a vibrant and colorful landscape oasis! Landscape Design in a Day creates custom planting plans as part of our design service.

 

Categories : Garden Tips, Low Maintenance Landscape Examples, Plants I Recommend, Summer Garden Tips
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Low Maintenance Ornamental Grasses for Your Portland Garden: Part 3 of 3

Posted by Landscape Design in a Day 
· November 10, 2024 

 

Switch Grass is a Native, Low Maintenance Addition to Your Portland Garden Design

Panicum virgatum American Switch Grass glowing red in mid summer in Portland Oregon

Panicum virgatum American Switch Grass ‘Ruby Ribbons’ glowing red in mid summer in Portland Oregon

Switch Grass: Colorful grass blades with drought tolerance too

Switch grass is a native American grass that offers dramatic color and form, making it a standout in any garden:

  • Mass Planting: This grass looks fantastic when massed or used as a focal point. It’s particularly effective in modern landscapes but fits well into naturalistic gardens too.
  • Seasonal Interest: With its vibrant mid-summer and fall colors, switch grass provides interest when many other plants are fading. I have noticed many of the newer varieties of switch grass blades color up even by mid June depending on how hot it has been.
  • Water Needs: Once established, switch grass is very low water. However, it’s crucial to plant it in well-drained soil. Avoid areas where water can puddle, as this will cause the roots to rot. If you still have powerful overhead sprinkler spray be aware the water spray can cause these grasses to fall over.  Drip irrigation is better for this reason and that it is easier to water deeply and infrequently which is a perfect fit for this grass.
  • Height Considerations:
  • Stick with grasses under 4′ tall for low maintenance.  I always use shorter cultivars 36 to 44 inches tall to avoid my clients having to add supports.  But, taller varieties (such as 6 or 7′ tall switch grass) can be so stunning if you’re willing to put a ring or other support around the plant in spring.  Piet Ouldalf, a famous garden designer uses heavy metal rings with feet (the ring was about 14” to 18”) around his 6′ tall ornamental grasses.  I found this video link on the web for a grass ring but wow these grasses in the video are huge and much wider than any of the tall grasses that I use.   I was in Piet’s garden back in 2001 and saw the supports he uses.  It made me laugh because I had thought when my tall grasses flopped that I was overwatering or doing something wrong but even the master uses supports for tall grasses.  If you are an adventurous gardener, willing to use supports, go for some of the tall varieties like 8′ foot tall Thundercloud Switch Grass.

Switch grass used as a colorful entry walk plant in S.W. Portland in a drought tolerant garden of grasses, herbs, and succulents.

Switch grass is a versatile and resilient choice, offering beauty and adaptability to various garden styles.  It doesn’t provide well for Willamette Valley native insects but it pairs beautifully with pollinator friendly plants like Blanket Flower, Salvias, Penstemons and more. It makes an orderly but loose effect with native pollinator friendly shrubs like Coyote Bush.

Bringing It All Together

Sedum Autumn Joy contrasts beautifully with Switch Grass (Panicum virgatum background) in Portland garden.

Creating a custom landscape design requires a deep understanding of plant behavior. As a landscape designer, my goal is to select plants that not only look beautiful but also thrive in your specific environment with minimal maintenance. Here’s how I can help:

  • Custom Designs: I tailor designs to fit your space and lifestyle and your eco consciousness.  I won’t proselytize but am happy to create plantings that feed our native insects.  Birds gotta eat too and what they eat are insects.  Or maybe we will only use a few native plants and use more non native plants that help bees and use less water all without cramping your style.  Whether you want a low-maintenance garden or are more interested in plants that require learning how to care for them… I’ll create a plan that works for you.
  • Knowledge and Experience: I understand how different plants grow and perform and what it takes to care for them.    Lets create a thriving and vibrant planting plan for your new landscape.
  • Personalized Advice: We’ll discuss what “low maintenance” actually means to you and design a garden that meets your expectations and provides the stunning visual appeal you expect from a landscape designer.

Get in Touch

Creating a custom landscape design is more than just picking plants – it’s about understanding how they will perform in your unique environment and how much care they will need.  If you’re ready to transform your garden, contact me for a phone consultation. Let’s create a stunning, low-maintenance landscape tailored to your needs and preferences.

Categories : Design Basics, Drought Tolerant Garden, Garden Tips, Low Maintenance Landscape Examples, Native Plants, Plants I Recommend
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Low Maintenance Ornamental Grasses for Your Portland Garden: Part 1 of 3

Posted by Carol 
· November 2, 2024 

Creating Stunning Landscapes with Ornamental Grasses: Expert Tips from a Landscape Designer

Low maintenance ornamental grass, Fescue Elijah Blue in Portland front yard with colorful low water sedum groundcovers.

Drought tolerant and colorful N.E. Portland front yard boasts ornamental grasses like Blue Fescue.

As a landscape designer, one of my favorite elements to incorporate into a garden is ornamental grasses. Not only do they provide year-round interest, but they are also incredibly low maintenance and many are drought-tolerant. Grasses visually tie the plants in the garden together and add a calming influence.

I’m excited to share some insights and tips on using grasses in Portland landscapes and how to keep them looking their best.  The grasses I am talking about today are available at most garden nurseries and are perfect for creating a striking, low-maintenance landscape.

Fescue Grass: Elegance in Blue

Festuca glauca – Blue fescue is a stunning choice for any landscape. It’s soft blue hued blades add a touch of elegance and contrast, especially when paired with vibrant perennials like sedums. (They work with so many low water plantings.)  Here are some important tips you need to keep your fescue looking its best:

  • Planting: Space them further apart than you might think – at least 24 to 30 inches. This allows them to grow and shine without overcrowding.  Low ground cover plants (under 5 inches) can be planted close by and creep right up to the grass.
  • Maintenance: Mostly, you’ll just need to comb out the dead foliage in the spring with the occasional spruce up as needed.  When they get too big or start getting floppy, split them (very few people do this anymore), or just replace them entirely. They typically look great for about 3 -5 years assuming you didn’t overwater or over fertilize them which can cause rapid growth. I’ve never fertilized mine.
  • Water Needs: Once established, fescue has low water needs.  Figure out how you will water this area much less than other areas of your landscape.  If you can’t cut back the water using your irrigation system without damaging other plantings, try re configuring your overhead spray irrigation or close off the section of drip tube by replacing it with tube that has no holes in it.  (The term ‘established’ means the plant has been in one place for a full year or two.)
  • How to Kill this Plant:  Water it every day in the summer, over fertilize it, or plant it in a low place where winter water will puddle which will cause root rot.
  • Companion Plants: In this garden I used sedums, hens and chicks, and lower water perennials like Rudbeckia (black eyed susan) which are excellent companions.  The low sedums and succulents fill in around the grasses and add bursts of color. Other low water perennials such as colorful salvias, penstemons and blanket flower (Gaillardia) work well as do dwarf pines or other low water dwarf conifers.

Low Maintenance Reality

Even though you may need to replace fescue every 3-4 years, I still consider them low maintenance.  Sometimes I use fescue as a temporary planting, removing them once long term plantings such as dwarf evergreen shrubs have filled in and reached a more mature size.   Other times I deliberately use fescue for the long term vision with the client knowing they will be planning to replace them as needed.

Additionally,

Continue reading about Portland low maintenance ornamental grasses in the garden in our upcoming Part 2.

Contact us

Hilary and I love plants.  We love making planting combinations that work well together both from a cultural needs and visual spice point of view.    Our knowledge can integrate your landscape plantings and take them to a new level of attractiveness and durability.

 

 

Categories : Design Basics, Drought Tolerant Garden, Garden Tips, Landscape Styles, Low Maintenance Landscape Examples, No Lawn Front Yards, Plants I Recommend
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Low Maintenance Ornamental Grasses for Your Portland Garden: Part 2 of 3

Posted by Landscape Design in a Day 
· October 25, 2024 

Low Maintenance Fountain Grass: The Steady Eddie of Ornamental Grasses In Your Portland Garden Design

Portland area residential landscape designer.

Fountain grasses planted with late flowering Italian lavender create great textural contrast and cascade down this dry hot slope showing early fall color.

Fountain Grasses: Versatile, Vibrant and Low Water

Fountain grasses are popular for a reason – their graceful, often arching foliage and feathery plumes add movement and texture to any garden. They work beautifully in both formal and informal settings and look great with a variety of plants:

  • Commercial Appeal: Fountain grasses are often seen in commercial plantings, but don’t let that deter you. In residential gardens, they pair wonderfully with pollinator friendly naturalistic garden plants like heather, lavender, shrubs and many more pollinator friendly perennials that are stunning with fountain grasses.
  • Crowded Beds: When your planting composition starts to look crowded, it’s time to split or thin out some of the grasses. Many grasses including fountain grass need to be split every 5 years minimum.  If you overwater they may flop and they will need splitting sooner.  Splitting or thinning out some grass plants keeps the planting composition looking the way we designed it and avoids having the plantings grow into each other.  Crowding spoils the beauty of the different plants shapes and how their distinct shapes contrast with each other. I praise the faster growth of grasses over shrubs.  Using grasses means we don’t have to wait 5 years or more for the planting scheme to come together.
  • Versatility: Fountain grasses can fit into various garden styles, from modern to cottage. They’re also a great choice for adding height and interest. Last of all they can be used as temporary plantings while waiting for trees and shrubs to mature.

  • modern front walk with grasses heathers and lavanders in low water landscape design for front yard in SE Portland

    Modern front walk with grasses, heathers and lavanders in low water landscape.

    Drought Tolerant Planting:  This plant handles lots of sun, and heat in Portland.  Once established most fountain grasses will take plenty of heat with a minimal amount of water.  These past two summers we have had high temps for longer periods than usual so the grasses next to concrete may need occasional deep watering to prevent scorched leaves.

Low maintenance Fountain grass in dry Portland garden.

Dry garden in N.E. Portland with Fountain Grass (Pennisetum alocuroides)

Remember, even commonly used plants can create stunning effects when thoughtfully paired and integrated into your landscape.  Commercial plantings typically use one kind of plant en masse which is often kind of boring and doesn’t provide the diversity our pollinators need.  Pairing fountain grass with dark red hens and chicks and drought tolerant heather (like Calluna vulgaris ‘Mrs Ron Gray’)  is an eye catching combination.

Problems with Fountain grass are similar to fescue, overwater, fertilize, or plant in a heavy clay soil that is soaking wet in winter.  Dog pee can brown out sections of fountain grass.  This urine damaged section often dies out and it doesn’t recover.  I never set them close to the public sidewalk in city front yards with lots of dog walkers.  Some neighborhoods have a lot more dog traffic than others.

Continue reading about Portland low maintenance ornamental grasses in the garden in our upcoming Part 3.

Contact me today for a custom landscape design that brings your vision to life. Together, we can create a beautiful, sustainable garden that you’ll enjoy for years to come.

 

Categories : Design Basics, Drought Tolerant Garden, Garden Tips, Low Maintenance Landscape Examples, Plants I Recommend
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Portland landscaper Carol Lindsay, Landscape Design In A Day on HOUZZ, 2018 awardPortland landscaper Carol Lindsay, Landscape Design In A Day on HOUZZ, 2017 awardPortland landscaper Carol Lindsay, Landscape Design In A Day on HOUZZ, 2016 award

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