Your outdoor living space is more than just a yard—it’s where you gather with family, entertain friends, and relax after a long day. But achieving the perfect outdoor oasis requires careful planning and attention to detail, especially during a remodel.
At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we understand the challenges Michigan homeowners face when it comes to landscaping. From harsh winters to sandy soils, our team has seen it all, and we’re here to help you avoid the most common pitfalls.
In this article, we’ll walk you through seven landscaping mistakes to avoid while remodeling your outdoor living space. With these insights, you’ll be able to create a functional and beautiful environment that thrives year-round.
- Ignoring Drainage and Grading Issues
- Overcrowding Plants and Trees
- Choosing Inappropriate Plants for Michigan’s Climate
- Neglecting Hardscaping Maintenance
- Forgetting About Year-Round Appeal
- Underestimating Soil Quality
- Lack of Adequate Outdoor Lighting
1. Ignoring Drainage and Grading Issues
Poor drainage can lead to standing water, swampy areas, and long-term damage to your landscaping. Michigan’s natural terrain often requires thoughtful solutions:
- Grade carefully to direct water flow toward natural creeks or lower areas.
- Install swale drains for efficient water movement—ensure proper depth and stone choice (pea stone works better than crushed marble for drainage).
- Consider rain gardens with native plants that have deep roots to absorb excess water naturally.
Neglecting these measures can result in ongoing maintenance headaches and costly repairs.
2. Overcrowding Plants and Trees
Overcrowding is a common mistake that can lead to maintenance issues and poor plant health. Avoid these pitfalls by:
- Researching the mature size of trees and plants. A sapling may fit now but could grow into overhead wires or crowd other features in a decade.
- Selecting plants that thrive in smaller clusters, especially near shade-casting trees.
- Planning for maintenance, particularly for plants that spread aggressively, to keep your garden balanced and healthy.
Overcrowding might mimic an English cottage garden’s charm, but a true English garden is strategic and requires meticulous upkeep to stay functional.
3. Choosing Inappropriate Plants for Michigan’s Climate
Michigan’s climate can vary widely, making it crucial to select plants suited for your specific grow zone.
- Check plant tags for grow zones, sun exposure needs, and whether they’re annual or perennial.
- Be aware of Michigan’s recent grow zone shift, which may affect long-term plant survivability.
- Focus on plants that match your soil type and the natural sunlight in your space.
The wrong plants may struggle to thrive, costing time and resources to replace.
5 Plants Recommended for Michigan’s Environment:
1. Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
A hardy, drought-tolerant perennial that thrives in full sun and attracts pollinators. Its purple blooms are perfect for Michigan's varied climate and soil.
2. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
Known for its bright yellow flowers and adaptability, Black-eyed Susan is perfect for sunny spots and poor soil conditions, making it ideal for Michigan gardens.
3. Astilbe (Astilbe spp.)
A shade-loving perennial that adds texture and vibrant color to gardens. Astilbe thrives in moist, well-drained soil, making it perfect for Michigan’s cooler climate.
4. Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.)
A native shrub or small tree that produces beautiful white flowers in spring and berries in summer, providing food for birds and visual interest throughout the year.
5. Daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.)
PC: The Home Depot
These perennial plants are low-maintenance, heat-tolerant, and thrive in Michigan’s soil. They bloom in a variety of colors and provide long-lasting beauty.
5 Plants Not Recommended for Michigan’s Environment:
1. Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica)
An invasive species that quickly spreads, crowding out native plants and causing damage to Michigan ecosystems. It is difficult to eradicate and should be avoided.
2. Norway Maple (Acer platanoides)
This invasive species outcompetes native plants, reduces biodiversity, and can damage nearby sidewalks and driveways with its shallow roots. Its dense canopy also limits sunlight, preventing other plants from thriving beneath it.
3. Mimosa Tree (Mimosa pudica)
While beautiful, this tree is not hardy enough for Michigan’s cold winters and can be prone to pest problems, including the destructive mimosa webworm.
4. Forsythia (Forsythia spp.)
Although it blooms early in spring, Forsythia can become overly leggy and invasive in Michigan, spreading quickly and outgrowing its space.
5. Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria)
An invasive wetland plant that can disrupt local ecosystems by crowding out native vegetation. It is particularly problematic near Michigan’s lakes and rivers.
4. Neglecting Hardscaping Maintenance
Hardscaping elements like patios, retaining walls, and pathways require care to maintain their appearance and functionality.
- Clean surfaces regularly to prevent algae growth and staining.
- Install proper drainage behind retaining walls to avoid structural damage from water pressure.
Durable hardscaping enhances your space, but poor maintenance can diminish its value and lifespan.
5. Forgetting About Year-Round Appeal
Landscaping isn’t just about summer blooms. For a space that looks great year-round:
- Incorporate shrubs and perennials that maintain structure in the winter months.
- Learn the seasonal maintenance needs of your plants to keep them healthy and vibrant.
A well-planned landscape adds visual interest throughout every season, enhancing your outdoor living space even during Michigan’s snowy winters.
6. Underestimating Soil Quality
Most of Michigan boasts rich soil, but areas near the lakes can be sandy, requiring adjustments:
- Opt for plants that thrive in your specific soil conditions.
- Be aware of PH-sensitive plants, like hydrangeas, that may change color based on soil acidity.
- Improve clay-heavy soil with amendments for better plant growth.
Understanding your soil can save time and ensure healthy, thriving greenery.
7. Lack of Adequate Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting can make or break your landscaping design. Many homeowners fail to account for lighting needs, but you can:
- Conduct a sun study to determine how much natural light your space gets.
- Install reflective features, like birdbaths or water elements, to brighten shaded areas.
- Use a mix of functional and decorative lighting for both safety and ambiance.
A well-lit landscape feels more inviting and highlights your outdoor features beautifully.
7 Quick Landscaping Ideas for Your Outdoor Living Space
Transforming your outdoor living space doesn’t always require a full-scale remodel. With a few thoughtful updates, you can elevate your yard's appeal and functionality in no time. Here are some quick landscaping ideas to get started:
- Add Container Gardens: Use decorative pots filled with vibrant flowers, herbs, or small shrubs to add color and texture to patios, decks, or entryways. They’re easy to move and refresh with the seasons.
- Install Outdoor Lighting: String lights, solar pathway markers, or LED spotlights can create ambiance and improve safety. Highlight key features like walkways, trees, or seating areas.
- Incorporate Mulch: A fresh layer of mulch around garden beds instantly tidies up the space while improving soil moisture and suppressing weeds.
- Plant Low-Maintenance Perennials: Add bursts of color with hardy perennials like daylilies, hostas, or black-eyed Susans, which thrive in Michigan’s climate and come back year after year.
- Create a DIY Fire Pit: A simple fire pit made of pavers or stones can provide a cozy gathering spot without a major investment.
- Refresh Edges and Borders: Use stones, bricks, or metal edging to define garden beds and walkways for a clean, polished look.
- Introduce Water Features: Small fountains or birdbaths add a soothing element and attract wildlife to your yard.
These quick landscaping updates can revitalize your outdoor space, making it more enjoyable for everyday use or entertaining guests. For more comprehensive transformations, consult a professional to bring your vision to life.
Next Steps to Remodeling Your Outdoor Living Space
A well-designed landscape sets the stage for an inviting, functional outdoor space. By avoiding issues like poor drainage and overcrowded plants, your investment can last for years.
At Custom Built Design & Remodeling, we create outdoor living spaces that combine beauty and practicality, tailored to Michigan’s unique climate.
Ready to elevate your yard? Contact us today to start planning a landscape you’ll love!
Now that you know more about landscaping mistakes to avoid while remodeling your outdoor living space, let’s take a look at the characteristics to look for in a reputable landscaping company, the top flora to plant for your deck, and terms you should know before starting your project:
- 7 Qualities of a Reliable Landscaping Company - Make the right choice while vetting your landscaping company options with our high-level article.
- 10 Best Plants for Your Michigan Deck - Discover the top foliage to incorporate into your Michigan outdoor living space for top-tier aesthetics and durability.
- The Ultimate Guide to Landscaping Terms for Your Home Remodel - Want to add more landscaping jargon to your vocabulary? Check out our guide to common terms.
