Question
I am building a new home and would like to begin planning my landscape.  I would really like to do some creative landscaping that really enhances the beauty of the home as well as provide "outdoor living space" in the back yard.  I really don't know where or how to begin the design.  I have a very large lot, the sky is the limit for what I have room to do.

Also... I have my own septic tank.... Is there danger of roots getting into the septic lines/system if I plant trees nearby?

Thank you,

Rex


Answer
Rex,
This is one of my FAQ's so everything in this reply may not apply to your specific situation.If I didn't cover something,please write me another question.

Well first you need a plan.Without a plan,you will be lost. Take your camera and get as many views as possible around the house and where you want the beds to be. Start slowly.If you rush it,you will be sorry you started.So roughly sketch out the area on paper,it doesn't have to be perfect,just a starting point.Work on one area at a time,whatever your priority is.I would also check with the neighbors that have the neglected garden to see if there are any salvageable plants or anything.I do that for a living and believe me,there are usually some plants that thrive without any care at all.They may be hard to identify until they bloom so you have to keep an eye out every season for color.Check for anything you can use,like statuary or border stones or shrubbery.They probably won't care if they aren't restoring it.(This may apply to you in the neighborhood your house is in.Neighbors love to give away extra plants)
Make a list of activities you will want to enjoy in your outdoor living space.For example: Barbeque area with a grill and plenty of seating room,Pets?,Children?,pool,water features like a fountain or pond,pathways to a secluded garden area to relax.
Also plan your budget for each feature of the garden and if you think you have enough for a professional designer that would help greatly,if only for a consultation.

Also here are some websites to look for plants that thrive in your zone,which is THE most important factor when planning a garden,so know your plant zone.Here are some great sources to look at on the web:

White Flower Farm,Wayside Gardens,Musser Forests, Shady Oaks Nursery,Walters Perennials(or Gardens),Jackson & Perkins,Khelm's Song Sparrow Perennial Farm,Van Bourgondien Bulbs,Van Dyck's Bulbs,Brent & Becky's Bulbs,Plants by Mail,Gardener's Supply Co.,Bluestone Perennials,Sheperds Seeds,Applewood seed Co.,Ball Seed Co.,Genesis Seeds,Ltd.(www.genesisseeds.com),Kieft Seed Co. USA(www.kieftseeds.com),Mountain Valley Seed,Inc.(www.mvseeds.com)
All these companies offer free catalogs too and a lot of specials if you order online.
Good luck with your garden and remember to go at your own pace!