Landscape Design Insights
-
01
Landscaping Increases Home Value by 10-20%
A well-designed landscape can increase the value of your home by 10-20%. In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors, homes with high-quality landscaping sell 5-15% faster than those without.
Source: National Association of Realtors (NAR)
-
02
Sustainable Landscaping Saves Water
With Southwestern Montana’s varying climate and occasional drought conditions, water conservation is crucial. Drought-tolerant plants and efficient irrigation systems can save you hundreds of gallons of water each year.
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
-
03
Landscaping Improves Curb Appeal
First impressions matter. Adding trees, bushes, and well-kept lawns instantly boosts curb appeal and can increase your home’s marketability, especially in areas like Bozeman, where outdoor beauty is highly valued.
Source: National Association of Realtors (NAR)
-
04
Native Plants Thrive and Require Less Maintenance
Using native plants, like Bitterbrush and Western Sagebrush, in your landscaping ensures they are well-suited to the region’s arid climate, which leads to fewer maintenance needs and water requirements.
Source: Montana Native Plant Society
-
05
Energy-Efficient Landscaping Reduces Utility Bills
Strategically placed trees or shrubs can shade your home, reducing heating and cooling costs by as much as 25%, helping keep your home cool during summer and warm during winter in Montana’s climate.
Source: U.S. Department of Energy
-
06
Adding a Patio or Outdoor Living Area Expands Your Living Space
A well-designed patio can expand your home’s usable living space, offering a place to relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors. This is especially attractive in Montana’s longer summer months.
Source: American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)
-
07
Landscaping Can Reduce Noise Pollution
In areas with high traffic, landscaping elements like shrubs and trees can help buffer unwanted noise, improving the serenity of your home environment.
Source: The Arbor Day Foundation
-
08
Proper Drainage Systems Prevent Landscape Erosion
Southwestern Montana can experience heavy rainfall and snowmelt. A well-designed drainage system ensures that water is directed away from your home, protecting your foundation and preventing erosion in your yard.
Source: U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
-
09
Permeable Pavers Help with Stormwater Management
Incorporating permeable pavers in your driveway or pathways allows rainwater to filter through, reducing runoff and helping prevent flooding.
Source: Stormwater Management Research
-
10
Low-Maintenance Landscapes Save Time and Money
Hardscapes like gravel pathways or retaining walls require less upkeep than traditional lawns. Choosing low-maintenance landscaping reduces long-term costs and increases the enjoyment of your property.
Source: Better Homes & Gardens
-
11
Garden Spaces Provide Mental Health Benefits
Engaging yourself with your garden reduces stress and promotes mental well-being. Studies show that spending time in a well-maintained garden can reduce anxiety, which is important for a balanced lifestyle.
Source: Harvard Health Publishing
-
12
Landscape Lighting Extends Outdoor Enjoyment
Landscape lighting can extend the time you spend outdoors, making your yard enjoyable even after dark. It also adds to your property’s security.
Source: American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)
-
13
The Right Plants Attract Pollinators
Landscaping with plants like lavender, milkweed, or sunflowers can attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, contributing to local ecosystems and enhancing biodiversity.
Source: Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation
-
14
Xeriscaping Reduces Water Usage
In Southwestern Montana, where water conservation is key, xeriscaping (a landscaping technique that focuses on drought-resistant plants) can dramatically reduce your water bill while maintaining an attractive landscape.
Source: Xeriscape Council of New Mexico
-
15
A Beautiful Landscape Can Enhance Your Quality of Life
A well-designed landscape fosters a connection to nature, helping you relax and providing a comfortable environment for family gatherings, outdoor dining, or gardening hobbies.
Source: Landscape and Urban Planning Journal
-
16
Landscaping Can Improve Air Quality
Trees and plants play a vital role in filtering pollutants and producing oxygen, improving the air quality around your home, this is especially valuable in urban areas like Bozeman.
Source: U.S. Forest Service
-
17
Trees Increase Property Value and Provide Long-Term Benefits
Adding trees to your landscape not only increases property value, but trees also provide long-term benefits like shade, privacy, and energy savings, which can be a major asset in Montana’s fluctuating temperatures.
Source: USDA Forest Service
-
18
Smart Irrigation Systems Save Money
A smart irrigation system can adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions and the specific needs of your plants, saving water and money. This is ideal for Southwestern Montana’s variable climate.
Source: Irrigation Association
-
19
Incorporating Wildlife-Friendly Elements Enhances Sustainability
Wildlife-friendly landscaping, such as adding birdhouses, butterfly gardens, or birdbaths, helps promote local wildlife and contributes to environmental sustainability.
Source: National Wildlife Federation
-
20
Aquascaping Creates a Tranquil, Zen-Like Environment
Incorporating water features like koi ponds or water fountains into your landscape not only beautifies the space but also creates a calming, peaceful environment. The sound of water can reduce stress and help promote relaxation, making it an ideal addition to your outdoor oasis.
Source: Journal of Environmental Psychology
-
21
Water Features Enhance Property Value
Adding an aquascape such as a pond, waterfall, or stream can enhance your property’s visual appeal and overall value. A well-designed water feature can serve as a focal point in your landscape, making your property stand out to potential buyers.
Source: National Association of Realtors (NAR)
-
22
Aquascapes Attract Wildlife and Promote Biodiversity
Water features can attract a variety of wildlife, from birds to beneficial insects, and even small animals like frogs or turtles, contributing to the biodiversity of your landscape.
Source: National Wildlife Federation
-
23
Aquascaping Reduces Backyard Maintenance
Once installed properly, aquascapes like ponds or water gardens can reduce your lawn maintenance efforts. Aquatic plants help with natural filtration, keeping the water clear and reducing the need for chemical treatments.
Source: Aquascape Inc.
-
24
Aquascaping Can Be Tailored to Southwestern Montana’s Climate
Aquascaping is highly adaptable. In Southwestern Montana, you can incorporate native plants around water features that are drought-tolerant and well-suited to colder winters, allowing you to maintain beauty without excessive maintenance.
Source: Water Garden Experts
-
25
Hardscaping Enhances Functionality and Usability
Hardscaping elements like patios, walkways, or retaining walls transform your outdoor space into a functional area that extends the living area of your home. These features can be tailored to maximize both aesthetics and practicality.
Source: American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)
-
26
Retaining Walls Prevent Erosion and Protect Your Landscape
In Southwestern Montana, where hillside properties and slopes are common, retaining walls can help prevent soil erosion, stabilize your landscape, and create more usable flat space for gardens or patios.
Source: U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
-
27
Outdoor Fireplaces and Fire Pits Provide Year-Round Enjoyment
A well-designed outdoor fireplace or fire pit can turn your backyard into a year-round entertainment space. In the colder months, it becomes a warm, cozy gathering spot for family and friends.
Source: National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
-
28
Pavers and Gravel Pathways Are Low-Maintenance Options
Hardscaping features like pavers, gravel paths, or stone walkways offer low-maintenance, long-lasting solutions that help define and organize your landscape without the hassle of frequent upkeep.
Source: Better Homes & Gardens
-
29
Hardscaping Creates Better Drainage and Erosion Control
Features such as gravel or permeable pavers can help manage stormwater runoff, keeping your landscape dry during heavy rains or snowmelt in Southwestern Montana, which can reduce flooding risks and protect the health of your lawn and garden.
Source: Stormwater Management Research
-
30
Hardscaping Adds Texture and Visual Interest
Adding a variety of materials such as stone, brick, or concrete can give your landscape visual interest and texture. These elements contrast beautifully with softscape elements like plants and grass, helping create a balanced, harmonious outdoor environment.
Source: Landscape and Urban Planning Journal
-
31
Hardscaping Increases Longevity and Durability
Hardscaping elements like stone walls, walkways, and patios are built to last, requiring minimal maintenance compared to plant-based landscaping. These features offer long-term benefits and withstand harsh weather conditions typical in Southwestern Montana.
Source: The Spruce