Landscaping Ideas in Montana

Pathways

• Many Montana homes are positioned on large stretches of land; pathways can help guide visitors around these huge estates. One way to incorporate a walkway into your landscaping design is to build a stepping-stone path by embedding large stones, tiles or brick into the ground. Space them about 4 inches apart, or stepping distance, to create your trail. Mulch or decorative pebbles are another option. To create this landscaping feature dig a shallow ditch that traces the route you want the new path to take. It only needs to be about 3 to 4 inches deep. Next, line the area with plastic and cover the lining with the filler of your choice. Or if you do not want to make permanent changes, simply create the illusion of a path using lawn decorations, potted plants or flower boxes. When strategically placed, these items offer pedestrians cues regarding which way to go.

Plants

• Native plants are a good landscaping choice for Montanans because they can handle each regions areas specific weather conditions. In addition to native flowers, native grasses can be used to accent your property. Bunch grass varieties native to the state include Indian Ricegrass, Bluebunch wheatgrass and Prairie Junegrass. They grow to be 1/2 to 1 foot tall and in the fall display pale yellow, tan and golden tips. Another option is to use potted plants and flower boxes instead of placing plants in the ground. If you are part of an area of Montana that experiences harsh winter, these plants can be pulled inside when the snow starts to fall to the ground.

Fencing

• Fences can add to a house's curb appeal, create a sense of security and even increase a property's privacy level, but for some homeowners they serve another important function. Fences protect their yard from rabbits, deer, raccoons and other critters. Montana residents who wish to keep the local wildlife off their property might want to consider including protective fencing in their landscaping plans. Chain-link fences are inexpensive, and when they are covered in a green plastic coating they blend into landscaping backgrounds. For more privacy plastic strips can be weaved through the links. If your goal is to deter smaller animals you don't need a terribly high fence. Instead, you can opt for decorative borders build out of diminutive wooden or metal fence pieces. Just keep in mind local zoning laws and homeowner association guidelines might restrict the kind of fencing you are allowed to build.