Those just learning about landscaping may feel like it’s a dark science that magically results in fabulous-looking yards. However, by focusing on general principles, even a beginner can create a respectable work of landscape design. So what are the components of great landscaping? Keep reading to find out.

Line

Line is used to direct the eye towards a certain area. It doesn’t necessarily need to be straight, but it should draw focus. Divergent or convergent lines can also be used to make spaces appear larger or smaller than they actually are.

Colour

Even if your entire landscape design appears in black and white, you’re still making use of colour. However, it’s highly unlikely you’ll be able to avoid using colours other than black and white. Smart use of colour can change the entire mood of a landscape.

Texture

Texture can be uniform or varied, depending on the look and feel you’re going for. Be sure to consider the various textures in your landscaping design and use them to emphasize or detract from spaces or structures as you see fit.

Scale

The different sizes of various elements of your landscape design can be used to increase or decrease their prominence. One of the main components of great landscaping is to keep the scale of various elements in proportion to the size of the space.

Light

Sun, shade and combinations of the two can be used to hide or accentuate certain spaces or elements in the landscape you’re working with. It’s also important to keep in mind the differences in light throughout the various seasons. You can use those differences to showcase distinct spaces at certain times of the year.

Pattern

Patterns can be used to evoke interest and curiosity. Varying patterns can be used to bring vitality or perception of motion to an area, whereas using a uniform pattern can bring calmness and tranquility to a space.

Symmetry

Symmetry can be used to establish order and calmness, whereas asymmetry can be used to arouse interest and energy. Symmetry can be used as a basis to establish a pattern. Asymmetry gives a more natural look and provides greater flexibility when it comes to future changes.