Landscaping Ideas for an Adirondack Look

Mixed Plantings

• To give your property the rustic look typical of the Adirondacks, plantings should feature a variety of trees, shrubs and flowers. By creating mixed plantings, you give your landscape a wild, natural feel that makes it seem as if the plants have grown on their own. Start with a combination of deciduous and evergreen trees to add height and texture. Avoid placing large trees too close to your home, though, because they may block the entryway or views from your windows. Evergreen shrubs are an ideal addition as well. Opt for various heights and thicknesses to give them a natural appearance. Use shrubs instead of a formal fence to mark the borders of your property to give it a more rustic appearance. Add a variety of annuals and perennials for color, mixing varieties and heights to create a haphazard, natural landscape.

Water Feature

• Water features are an ideal addition to an Adirondack-style landscape because they capture the feel of a natural mountain stream or spring. A waterfall can be connected to a small pond for a truly authentic look. A large waterfall creates a dramatic look and works well for a spacious yard. However, if you have a smaller property, opt for a mini waterfall that features a few stones and a trickling stream.

Stone Accents

• Because rustic, natural elements are such an important part of an authentic Adirondack landscape, stone is an ideal accent material for your home's exterior. You can use stone to create a winding walkway to your front door or through your garden. Stone is also an attractive surface material for a patio or pool deck and can be used for a retaining wall in your garden or on slopes on your property. For paving projects, opt for fieldstone, which has a more natural, rugged shape. Use boulders as decorative elements. Place them in an odd-numbered arrangement in an area where you wish to draw attention, such as the entrance to your driveway.

Adirondack Chairs

• On your patio, deck or porch, no furniture is more appropriate for an Adirondack-style landscape than Adirondack chairs. They generally feature a low seat, wide armrests and a high, curving back. They are made from wood and can be painted or stained. For a rustic look, stain is typically the best option. However, white paint provides a classic look as well.