Atlanta landscape architects

A Stunning Landscape Transformation

November 28, 2013

Many of our projects here at Dargan Landscape Architects involve creating a master plan of on-going facets that work to transform a homeowner’s property into an oasis they’ll enjoy for many years to come. In other cases, a tune-up may be all that’s needed in order to breathe new life into a tired, dull landscape. Regardless, it’s always exciting to keep track of the progress of a project and take note of the stunning transformations that take place within each landscape!

Today, we want to give you a peek into our portfolio with a look at some before and after shots of one of our projects. Enjoy this peek of one truly amazing transformation!

For clients whose property featured gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains, we designed a landscape that nicely framed its surroundings, while providing plenty of space for the homeowners to enjoy all year long. Grading work was required to level the area where the in-ground fire pit was installed.

Once completed, this part of the landscape became a great spot for enjoying a camp fire with family and friends on a chilly day.

The intersection of meandering pathways begins to take shape…

… The end result is a gorgeous walkway with lots of greenery and a bird bath taking center stage, accented with a few pops of color.

Here are a few more photos of the final results of this project.

Are you ready to transform your property with a new landscape? Contact Dargan Landscape Architects, so we can schedule a time to speak with you about the ideas you have in mind for your space. Either virtually or in person, we can help design the landscape you’ve always dreamed of. Let us help you begin your landscape’s stunning transformation.

How Much Water Does Your Garden Need?

November 25, 2013

Did you know that every plant in your garden is 90 to 98 percent water? As Janet Macunovich of Fine Gardening explains, “All the nutrients plants need to grow, color, flower, multiply, and defend their tissues against pests are produced by the solar-powered chemical reactions that take place in the watery soup within the cells.”

how to determine how much water your plants need — Source: J. Peterson Garden Design via Houzz

But providing plants with just the right amount of water is actually tricker than simply making sure they get an inch of water a week. As Dennis Patton of Kansas State University reminds us, “Learning when and how much to water is one of the most difficult gardening practices.”

The first step to effective and efficient watering is to conduct a capacity test to learn exactly how much water your soil holds. A simple water-holding capacity test will reveal the best times to water without having to wait until plants wilt.

To conduct the test, use a watering hose to soak a spot (around 12 inches in diameter) for about two minutes. Next, stick a trowel into this spot so it is about 3 or 4 inches underground and pull towards you to create a small hole where you can feel the soil with your hand. Do this every day until the soil is no longer cool and damp to determine how many days you can go without water in a rainless period. With this new information, you can now establish a watering schedule.

Once you have your watering regime in place, it’s time to make sure you are applying water as efficiently as you can to achieve a water-smart landscape. As Kathy LaLiberte of Gardeners.com reminds us, watering will not help the plants unless it reaches the root ball. Whether you are using sprinklers, drip hoses, a water-sensed labeled irrigation system or something else, make sure no water is being wasted on driveways or walkways and that it’s being applied slowly so it is able to soak deeply and thoroughly into soil.

Sign up to receive Mary Palmer Dargan’s free worksheets and videos for more valuable tips and ideas on a variety of landscaping topics. Or, contact Dargan Landscape Architects to discuss a master plan or tune-up for your property. Our goal is to help you create an oasis you’ll enjoy for years to come through sustainable landscape design that will Heal the Earth, One Garden at a Time!

Secret Gardens: Creating Your Private Oasis

November 19, 2013

Have you ever wanted to escape to a place where nothing and no one can disturb you? A secret garden may be just what you need. Not only will it give you the opportunity to retreat to a private space outside of your home, but it will allow you to surround yourself in the beauty and tranquility of nature.

Total immersion in a hidden garden can help you forget your worries and reconnect with nature to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. Call it the ultimate therapy session.

No matter what your style and how you plan to use your secret garden – whether for reading, meditating or private contemplating – it will need to be designed in a way that makes it partially hidden from the rest of your property. This can be done by creating a garden within a garden using tall shrubs and trees.

secret garden design ideas — Source: Philip Nimmo Design via Houzz

When selecting the spot for your hidden garden, choose somewhere somewhat tucked away and quiet. A neglected side yard, for example, can provide the perfect enclosed area for serene secret garden. However, for some homeowners, the entire landscape can become their own private retreat where only a select few are invited to visit.

Atlanta landscape architects — Source: Dear Garden Associates, Inc. via Houzz

We love Karen Chapman‘s idea of adding to the experience of entering the secret garden by building a little suspense and mystery with a winding path that twists and turns until it suddenly opens up to a small clearing. Envision a meandering stone path, for instance, that leads to a charming gate or arbor entryway where you are then greeted by gorgeous colors and textures and a charming flagstone patio with a lush live carpet.

Atlanta landscape design — Source: Bloom Landscape Design and Fine Gardening Service via Houzz

Amidst vibrant plantings and cascading containers, your secret garden can feature an elegant fountain, a stately statue or other piece of art as the focal point and centerpiece. A bench, a pair of lounge chairs or a bistro set with a small table and chairs can be used for creating a sitting area within your secret garden.

Cashiers Landscape Architects — Source: Exteriorscapes llc via Houzz

Are you enchanted by the idea of having your own secret garden? Dargan Landscape Architects in Atlanta can help you achieve the secret garden you thought only existed in movies and dreams. Contact us at 404.231.3889 to set up your design consultation. We can work with you virtually or in person and look forward to helping you create a space where you can Let Nature Speak!

For more information on creating a timeless landscape design or a secret garden, check out Mary Palmer’s book, Timeless Landscape Design.

Atlanta landscape architects

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