Where to Start

• Some elements of the landscape may already be in place. The builder likely planted a tree, a few shrubs and turf to satisfy city codes. Unfortunately, builders usually buy in bulk and put little thought into design. Check to see if these existing plants will eventually grow too large for the site, or if a shade plant has been placed in full sun. Do an assessment of the existing plants and decide what will stay or go.
  The "hardscape" features are the next thing to check. Many times there will be a concrete patio, but rarely will there be any paths. It is much easier to add these features early on, since they are permanent. There is no right or wrong way to design paths; how you use the property determines foot traffic. Pay attention to where you walk when you go outdoors. If you have to install both a patio and paths, it saves money to do your concrete work at the same time.
  Another early decision is whether you will want an irrigation system. If you don't yet have a lawn, it's better to install irrigation first. Even if you aren't ready for lights or water features, have the wiring done with the irrigation. The key is to get the more destructive jobs done before adding the plants. If you need to install the lawn yourself, check your local extension agency for the best grass seed for your area. You can lay sod in all but the hottest and coldest months of the year, but seeding is best done in spring or fall.
  
  

Now and Later

• Once the destructive phases are done, the rest can be added as you go. It takes time to make a new landscape feel inviting. Buying larger trees and shrubs will help a lot, and sometimes the price difference is minimal. You can overplant perennials so they will fill in quicker, and they can easily be thinned or divided later. Another way to create an instant landscape is to fill in the bare spots with annuals while the permanent plants are getting established.
  
  

Soil

• Unfortunately, soil suffers during construction. There is no better time to improve your soil than before planting.
  Contractors may put down sod with haste and not amend the soil, which will cause the lawn to decline at some point. If it already looks bad or is not yet installed, take the time to prepare the soil for turf.
  Even if your lot had good soil, it was probably scooped off and hauled away when the house was built. As a result, the best way to ensure good soil is to have topsoil or planting mix brought in by the truckload. Otherwise it will take years to restore the soil to a good growing medium. Never underestimate the importance of good soil.
  
  

Public Areas

• There may already be trees planted along the street or sidewalk. The street trees may belong to the city; if this is the case, leave them be. If the trees were planted by the builder or by you, make sure they are suitable street trees. You could be held responsible if the roots lift the sidewalk or asphalt later on.