Hardscaping includes everything from decks to walkways to edging to ornamental features. It refers to the hard elements of the landscaping, ie. nonliving features.

They can be formal or informal based on individual preference, style of home and landscape. Textural variety is important. Remember, using too many textures makes the area appear unattractive and cluttered and not enough will make it dull and drab. There is a balance that will make the area look perfect and just the way that you want it.

Consider the design of the hardscape elements and your drainage patterns. Hardscape gardening features should improve the overall appearance of your home landscape.

In addition to decks and such, walkways and paths are common hardscape choices. Some of the choices of materials to use could be bricks, woodchips, pavers, etc. Retaining walls are a choice as well which can be made of concrete blocks, rocks or similiar items.

Before choosing the materials that you will use to make the hardscapes, consider the purpose. One example would be play areas for children which should be soft enough for the children to play in.

Many types of mulch, such as bark and pebbles, are considered part of the hardscape too. Hardscaping is not difficult as long as you plan it. The goal is to complement the surroundings.

You’ll notice that some of the ones that you may choose to use on the outdoor patio also have solar panel attachments, so you won’t need to run power out to them.  Most of these are small enough to fit in a sun room.

The purpose of these water features and the reason they’re so popular, is the soothing feeling the sound of water brings to someone who has had a stressful day.

If you’re looking to add flair and character to an open space or just a corner of your yard - wishing wells make a great addition.

Depending on how you go about acquiring your well, either through Craigslist, buying the lumber, stone, or a prefab – this will dectate how much costs are involved, along with labor.  Odds are, for a no frills wishing well, you’re looking at $20 -400.00.

There are all types of wells out there to choose from.  If you plan to go with a wooden model, we recommend that you make sure the well is constructed out of cedar.  This will give the well a few additional years over pine and won’t require extensive cleaning and treating.

You should know that any wooden well is going to turn after spending some time out in the elements.  Sanding and treating will prolong the look of the well, but ultimately, mother nature will over come all your hard work.  Though, some people appreciate the character given to a weathered well.  It’s up to you.

A simple step-by-step installation process on how to create your own beautiful, low-maintenance fountainscapes using Aquascape’s AquaBasin™ System. Learn more at http://www.aquascapeinc.com