Well-kept lawns, blooming gardens and pretty pergolas beautify outdoor spaces and add value to real estate. No matter how little square footage one has it's a good idea to beautify or utilize it to the fullest. But is it possible to go too far? Definitely, and these are the mistakes to avoid.

Going about planting all wrong

Gardening is an art, most gardeners will tell you, and it actually is. There's a science behind how to grow plants, how to prevent them from damaging others and how to make them beautify yards. Some of the common mistakes made by homeowners are cutting grass too short which makes it susceptible to disease and invites unwanted insects, planting too deep which causes plants to get choked from too much soil, planting without regard for proper sunlight, and not fertilizing properly.

Lack of a green thumb can be rectified by making enquiries at the nursery on how to grow and maintain plants. Reading up and consulting gardening lovers is also helpful.

Over-accessorizing

The idea of landscaping is to add beauty where there's none and create a balance between want and need. In a bid to have the most beautifully designed yard, some make the mistake of over-accessorizing with too many lawn ornaments, topiary they can't maintain and water features that don't do a lot for the overall aesthetics.

Instead of having too many things dotting the landscape, choose a couple of items. Assuming that a garden already exists, a pergola can be added to lend a tranquil, relaxing air and an outdoor bench placed nearby. Or, the bench can be substituted for a beautiful birdhouse. There are literally dozens of great ideas.

Not recycling

Gardens produce waste in the form of twigs, branches, fallen leaves. They can be disposed but a better way is to turn them into mulch and use it as free fertilizer.

Keeping the yard free of mess adds beauty and prevents pests from making their home. Leaves and branches left as is attract rats, mice and other pests that may use the waste to nest and burrow under. Pets, if any, will also kick up a mess by scattering things.

If recycling is not possible due to whatever reason the waste can be collected by municipal and private collectors.

Not repainting the house

Once the yard is fit to grace magazine covers, take a step back to see if it complements the house. Many make the mistake of assuming that both match but it often happens that the house appears old and drab. Give it a fresh coat of paint and do the same for other structures like sheds and old accessories like garden benches. You'll be amazed by the difference!

Poor fencing

It's known that perimeters should be secure but some fail to give much importance especially if the neighborhood is quite safe. Don't be that person and take the pains to secure your property. Even if burglaries are not common you still want your children and pets to stay safe. Wild animals will also be deterred from entering.

A well-landscaped yard is properly planned and contains key elements that make it so. It ensures that passersby stop in appreciation and yearn to possess the same. Avoid these no-no's to get started and be the envy of all the neighbors!