Why wait until a visitor comes inside your home to extend a cordial greeting? Well maintained flower beds with well-chosen plants not only make the short journey a pleasant one, they can also enhance your home’s most public face.

The landscape and well chosen plants in this picture, help create a cozy atmosphere; take away the landscaping and the house would not be as interesting or cute.

The pinks and lavenders in the landscape are an attractive contrast to the home’s color.

When planning around your home it always a good idea to keep in mind your home’s color and architecture.

Add trees and shrubs that bloom throughout the seasons. Adding attractive foliage, much of it evergreen, and striking bark ensure interest all year.

Three things that never fail in a great landscape: keep it simple, add contrast, keep it clean and tidy.

If you are at a lost as to what to do with your yard, take a walk around your neighborhood, go to parks or visit personal garden in your area. Gather ideas and then go to work. Start simple, take a cue from learning any skill — it takes time, study and practice — a process that can be lots of fun!