The Coronavirus outbreak caused many people to reconsider how they spend their spare or leisure time. The initial restrictions caused a lot of folks to take to the outdoors. Both back and front yards became centers for socializing, a respite from Zoom meetings, and a place to grow their own healthy fruits and vegetables.
As the health crisis continues and another warm season is looming, thoughts will be turning to Calgary landscape maintenance and outdoor activities.
Outdoor Havens
People will gravitate to their decks and patios. There is likely to be an increased desire for privacy. That means it is very likely that landscaping will feel that effect by strategic plantings of hedges, shrubs and other natural windbreaks. Climbing vines on pergolas or lattice work will be an easy solution. Retractable vinyl screens will also likely be used on trellises. There could be more requests for fire pit installations to extend the use of patio areas into the cooler months.
Entertainment Spots
Backyard pools were a big hit for adults and children last year and will probably be requested again this year. Parents will also likely be looking at ways to keep children entertained with maze areas, pavements for bike races, or climbing areas.
Vertical Gardens
Small spaces won’t be overlooked. Vertical structures like fences will see the addition of pots to grow vegetables, herbs, and flowers. This can become a “statement” area that will give interest to a little used area.
Front Yards
With more walkers and bikers, front yards in residential areas will take center stage. Native plants have grown in popularity and that trend will probably continue. With low maintenance needs and still attractive, the environment will be the focal point. Pollinator-friendly plants will also be important. Many of these are perennials and well suited to an eclectic landscape.
Remaining as a social mecca, the front yard, driveway or porch will be gathering places for neighbors and safe distancing for friends and relatives. Additional seating options will start cropping up including retaining walls, or benches. Expect more pathways and walk areas to be designed, including lighting options and plantings.
Vegetables
In the coming year, it is expected that veg gardens will be better thought out than in 2020. The ability to become more self sufficient and to eat healthy will make it a return adventure. Expect to see more plants available for sale including herbs and trees. Irrigation systems may be one of the top requests to help maintain gardening plots.
The bottom line is that almost any outdoor activity will be popular in the coming year. Landscaping will become more important and more thought given to plants that will afford some interest during the winter months.
If you have questions or would like help revamping your yard, contact us at Project Landscape. We have experts just waiting to help you. We are available for planning sessions, plantings, construction or ongoing maintenance. We have lots of ideas to share and are very interested in what you may have developed yourself.