Taking the first step to transforming your yard

Hiring a landscape designer can help you focus on the elements that make the most sense for your space. Or, find inspiration in the Yardtopia gallery, where you can browse photos and ideas from fellow Yardtopians and experts.

If gardening is your focus, consider what season you’re in. Stay aware of rain conditions and the amount of sunlight or shade.

Give your plantlings the room they’ll need to grow. Choose a variety of heights to add interest and dimension. Use native flowering shrubs for bursts of color year-round.

Free help is available, such as The California Native Plant Society’s online planner. Answer four easy questions at gardenplanner.calscape.org for a personalized recommended plan.

For extra support, hire a garden planner or landscape architect.

Whether you take experts’ advice and implement the work yourself, or rely on hired consultants for a full installation, professional insights will ensure you’re creating the very best version of your Yardtopia.