Wayne's Weekend: Backyard Makeover

I live in a typical Chicago six-flat building. We have a common area between the back of the building and the garages. The area gets limited sun, so grass has never grown well there. Over the years, though, I've done a few things to make the space more comfortable, including building a picnic table, patio, and wall planters. And, I used a lot of pots for flowers and herbs to add some color. But, there was never really a master plan for the space and with summer on the way, this seemed like a perfect time to give the space a real makeover.There were areas of the yard that had no life. Unsightly items like the space under the first floor decks and the dumpster needed to be hidden. Finally, some of the elements I had already created needed to be re-evaluated and either replaced or moved to another location in the yard. I had a lot of ideas. But, to help me, my friend and master gardener Jeff Hale came over and provided invaluable advice. Jeff is a graduate of the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener Program and the recipient of many awards and commendations, including the Tribune Glorious Garden Contest winner for Best Small Space Garden. He is an accomplished Bonsai artist, and also grows Orchids in his free time.With Jeff's and my friend Michael Arabshian's help, we were able to do all of the work over a weekend. And, you can too. To give you some help, I've summarized Jeff's ideas into five basic tips for a garden/backyard makeover. I've also provided useful links to specialist who can provide more information.

1. Plan Ahead
Know what works for your neighbors and your building. How will the spaces be utilized? What kind of traffic will there be?Learn about different types of plants and know which will do well in certain areas based on the amount of sun available. Work with a master plan so that you don't necessarily have to do everything right now. That way, if you set a budget for yourself, you can determine if certain elements can wait until next year.
2. Break Larger Areas Into Smaller Ones
You can create much for intimacy in your yard by designing "rooms". Using plants as borders can help achieve this. Also, use focal points in each area, like a tree, bush, statuary, etc., to create visual interest. Lastly, work in sets of threes. Using an odd number of elements actually creates more balance to a space.
3. Use Color And Texture
When working with foliage, flowers, and artwork/statuary, you create greater depth to your space by using a range of colors and texture. Remember that once flowers stop blooming, you still can have a colorful space to enjoy.
4. Practice Good Plant Care
Water frequently right after replanting your new yard to get plants off to a great start. Take the time to learn about mulching and fertilizing to maintain your garden for the entire season and beyond.
5. Feel Free To Redesign
Plants that don't do well for 2-3 years can be moved to a new spot. And, large plants can be divided and shared with friends.

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