🌳 7 Common Landscaping Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Meta Title: 7 Common Landscaping Mistakes Homeowners Make | Landscaping Tips
Meta Description: Discover the most common landscaping mistakes that can ruin your yard—and learn simple ways to avoid them.

Expert landscaping tips for a healthier, more beautiful outdoor space.

Whether you're planning a DIY landscaping project or hiring a professional, knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what works.

Avoiding common landscaping mistakes can save you time, money, and frustration—while helping your yard thrive for years to come.

Below are seven frequent errors homeowners make when landscaping—and expert tips to avoid each one.

1.

Planting Too Close to the House (or Each Other)

It might look neat when everything is small, but plants grow faster and larger than expected.

Trees planted too close to foundations or fences can cause damage, while overcrowded shrubs compete for sunlight and nutrients.

✅ Pro Tip: Always research mature plant size before planting.

Leave enough space for growth—both above and below ground.

2.

Ignoring Soil Health

Many homeowners spend time on design but skip the foundation—literally.

Poor soil leads to weak plants, drainage issues, and more maintenance.

✅ Pro Tip: Test your soil before planting.

Add compost or soil amendments based on pH and nutrient needs.

3.

Using Too Many Different Plants

A wide variety of plants might seem visually interesting, but too many types can make your yard look messy and disorganized.

It also makes maintenance harder.

✅ Pro Tip: Stick to a consistent plant palette.

Group plants in odd numbers for a natural look (e.g., three or five).

4.

Over-Mulching (a.k.a.

“Mulch Volcanoes”)

Mulch is great for moisture retention and weed control—but too much, especially around tree trunks, can choke roots and invite disease.

✅ Pro Tip: Keep mulch 2–3 inches deep, and never pile it against trunks or stems.

5.

Poor Drainage Planning

Without proper grading and drainage, you could end up with standing water, erosion, or basement leaks.

This is especially common in DIY landscaping.

✅ Pro Tip: Always slope soil away from your home.

Use French drains or dry creek beds in problem areas.

6.

Not Considering Maintenance Needs

Many homeowners choose high-maintenance plants or materials, only to regret it later.

Landscaping should fit your lifestyle, not create more work than you can handle.

✅ Pro Tip: Choose low-maintenance plants and materials that suit your climate and time availability.

7.

Neglecting Seasonal Interest

A yard that looks amazing in spring may be bare and dull in winter if you don’t plan for year-round appeal.

✅ Pro Tip: Include a mix of evergreens, flowering shrubs, ornamental grasses, and seasonal perennials for year-round color and texture.

🌿 Final Thoughts

Avoiding these common landscaping mistakes helps you create a space that’s not only beautiful but also functional and low-maintenance.

Whether you’re redoing a front yard or building a backyard oasis, planning smart from the start pays off long-term.