At Paragon, we classify planting bed sophistication in the following way:

• Level 1:  This refers to a simple planting, one layer deep, usually a row of foundation shrubs.  This is the classic look of a home that has a minimal landscape installed by the builder.
• Level 2:  A row of shrubs, fronted by a mass of perennials or groundcovers.
• Level 3:  Backdrop shrubs in the back of the planting bed, groundcovers in the front, and masses of perennials or smaller shrubs in the mid ground.
• Level 4:  An upgraded version of level 3, but with beds large enough to accommodate ornamental trees, accent stones, and other landscape ammenities.  These details give the planting beds more depth and interest than plants alone.
• Level 5:  Like level 4, but designed in a way that sweeps into the open spaces of the yard, defining spaces, screening unsightly views, and creating focal points and destinations in the landscape.

When we meet with a client, there are two factors which tend to have the strongest influence on the level of landscape sophistication we create.

1. The Client’s Vision for their property
2. The Client’s Budget

To make your landscaping more sophisticated, determine what level your landscape currently qualifies to be, and study plantings and pictures that reach the next level.  In this way, you can improve the look of your home one step at a time.  Focus your attention on the most important areas first.  Backyard Living Spaces and Curb Appeal are usually the most important, since they are “where you live” and “what people see.”  It is ok to have the front of your home at a level 4, the backyard living space at a level 5, and a seldom-used side of the house at level 1.  Wise investing allows for putting your hard-earned money in the places that give the most return.

For an interesting exercise, classify the homes in your area the next time you are out for a walk.  You might be surprised to find that the homes in your area tend to follow a pattern, as different subdivisions have their own level of planting sophistication.  In this “New” way of looking at the world, it becomes obvious who loves landscaping (a level 5 landscape in a subdivision who averages level 2’s, for example), and who couldn’t care less (level 1, or even “0″…yikes!).  If you look closely, you might even see the trend-setters, those who improve their place level by level, and inspire their neighbors or their entire block to upgrade.

Have fun with this exercise, and please keep Paragon in mind if you need help getting your landscape to the proper level of sophistication.  We stand ready to serve!