- 1). Draw a diagram of your yard. Include all immovable objects, driveways, swimming pools, outside structures and existing plants you wish to keep. Measure each area to get an idea of how much space you are working with when planting.
- 2). Purchase a soil pH testing kit from your local county extension office to get an in-depth analysis of your yard. The test will give you more information about the pH balance nutrient content. Dig several 6-inch holes throughout your yard. Collect the soil samples and allow them to air dry. Mail off to the address provided on the testing kit and wait for the results.
- 3). Find out what type of soil you have in your yard by filling a jar up to two-thirds with native soil. Fill the jar with one-third water and shake. Wait for 24 hours to check the jar. Sand will settle first, loam second and clay last. If the majority of the jar is sand then you have dry soil with good draining abilities. A majority of clay soil in the jar suggests that your soil is waterlogged and has poor drainage. Loam soil is optimal soil for growing most plants.
- 4). Compile a list of plants that can grow in the existing soil and draining conditions in your yard. Decide if you want to expand the list by making soil amendments based on the results of the soil test. Add lime to acidic soil and sulfur to alkaline soil. For soil with poor drainage, spread 4 inches of both coarse sand and compost over the growing area.
- 5). Indicate on your diagram where you want to plant your plants. Plant taller plants in the back of flower beds, so they won't overcrowd small ornamental plants. Draw where you want your focal points in your yard and your bordering plants. You can pick aspects of types of gardens like rock gardens or English gardens that you can use as part of your landscaping plan.
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