When Plants Can't do the Whole Job: Use Construction Elements

While landscapes are generally thought to be made up solely of plants, they are actually composed of green goods (or greenscape or even softscape) and what is termed “hardscape.” Hardscape consists of construction elements that are used to enhance a landscape when plants simply can’t take care of the whole job. If you’re a constant reader, you must know by now that I favor using plants wherever they will work. But, there are many instances when hardscape becomes a valuable part of the total look of our landscape.

We need to explore using different construction elements when it is clear that one of them will do a job for us more effectively than plants will. This may be due to space constraints. For example, if you only have six feet between your house and the property line, a fence will use space more effectively than a four-foot wide line of shrubs. Likewise, time constraints can also be a consideration. In the same situation, you only have to wait until the fence is built before you have the privacy you desire. It could take several years before the shrubs would be able to yield the same type of screen. In this case, using a fence does make sense and they can be designed to look good on both sides.

This being said, there are many different construction elements that can be used to fulfill a landscaping function while also enhancing your property.

Paths of walks can be used to visually or physically move people through your property; and there are some alternatives to using plain concrete for these. For example, bricks, pavers, stepping-stones, gravels and mulches could be appropriate materials.
Steps can also serve to move us to different levels in a landscape setting. If you decide to put steps in, be certain that they are completely safe to use. They should have a uniform rise and tread, including landings, if necessary.

Walls are structural elements that can range from six inches tall to as much as several feet tall. They can be used to increase soil retention and can be made of timber, natural stones, or manufactured interlocking and stackable pieces. The important thing to keep in mind with walls is to make sure they are structurally sound. When fences (and free standing walls) and other hardscape elements are used, they can be softened with greens such as vines, shrubs, or espaliered trees and other plants.

Gates are another element that can be used to add interest and direct or restrict movement. They range in design from something fairly simple to ornate iron creations and beyond.

Hardscape can also create outdoor living spaces in your landscape. Pergolas, gazebos, decks, patios, and sunrooms all provide the defined space that people feel most comfortable with when outside. At their best, these incorporate green goods that are as much a part of defining the space as the wood and nails are. For example, a patio room that used latticework with a vine twined through it, along with the over arching branches of a giant maple, to define the space overhead, manages to balance the use of hardscape and green goods.

These are just a few examples of the different construction elements that can be added to your landscape. As with choosing plants, anything you choose to build on your property should serve a purpose. In addition, some communities have laws in place that limit the height of walls or fences. Check on this before you build to be certain you don’t run into problems later.