6 Essential landscaping terms

by Denise Mason 11/30/2022

If you’re just getting started with landscaping, it can seem as if it has a language all its own. While landscape designers use specialized terminology to describe the ins and outs of their work, most of the important language overlaps with gardening, architecture and real estate. This means you might already know more about landscaping styles and features than you think!

Regardless of your experience level or goals, knowing the right terms can help you understand the key elements of landscaping. To help, here is a guide to some of the most important terms to know:

Perennial

Perennial is a term used to describe plants that only need to be planted once to grow and bloom every year. Perennial plants and flowers can last multiple years and even decades with the right conditions and care. Well-established perennials are low maintenance landscape features that can increase your property value, whether located in your front yard or backyard.

Annual

As a contrast to perennial plants, annual plants only last one season. This type of plant includes many of the most popular flowering shrubs for increasing curb appeal in outdoor spaces. Annuals make a great landscaping choice for homeowners who like to change the aesthetics of their property’s landscaping regularly.

Deciduous

Deciduous trees or shrubs lose their leaves every winter. However, unlike annual flowers, they don’t need to be replanted every year. Instead, deciduous trees go dormant during the cold season and wake up again in the spring with new growth. Deciduous trees are popular landscaping features for creating shade and adding visual interest to an outdoor space.

Evergreen

Evergreen trees hold on to their leaves or needles all year long. Some popular evergreen shrubs used in landscaping are boxwood, arborvitae and holly. Tall trees like firs, spruce and pine are perfect for adding year-round privacy to landscape design.

Some other evergreen trees like Southern magnolia produce flowers during the spring and summer, but keep their rich green foliage all year.

Hardscape

Hardscape is a term used in landscaping and exterior design to mean any of the non-living or human-made elements in the landscape. Architectural features like paved patios count as hardscape elements, as do retaining walls, pathways and decorative rock features. Hardscape also includes the fixed features surrounding a swimming pool, permanent fire pit or zen garden.

Softscape

In landscaping language, the softscape refers to all the living elements in an outdoor space. This includes trees, shrubs, flowers, grass and other vegetation. Depending on the style of landscape architecture, softscape elements can serve as a focal point or simply tie the design together.

Whether your goals are to impress potential buyers with amazing curb appeal, or create a personal oasis in your backyard, knowing these key landscaping terms will help you on your journey.

About the Author
Author

Denise Mason

Hi! I'm Denise Mason. WELCOME to my Website! Being a full-time REALTOR® gives me the opportunity to assist in achieving your wants, desires, needs, and priorities in selling or finding a home. My goal is to take care of my real estate clients by providing an exceptional, no drama experience that you not only deserve but should demand in the hectic and competitive marketplace of today. I work closely with you throughout your entire real estate transaction. I work to be your family REALTOR® for life. Success begins and ends with good communication. I love what I do and do what I love! I am positive, enthusiastic and truly enjoy people and the real estate business. My commitment to you, my client extends far beyond a single transaction. My goal is to communicate, educate and exceed expectations! As the daughter, wife, and mother of active duty and retired service members, I've had numerous relocation experiences; renting, buying and selling a home. I grew up in Arlington County, VA and lived there for more than 20 years. Upon my husband's retirement from the Army we could think of no better place to call home than Virginia, the place of our childhood. I have been a Prince William County resident since 1997. We have raised and educated three children in the Prince William County School system. My family is my pride and priority which makes me no different than you or any other individual who wants a safe and comfortable environment for yourself, family and friends. I look forward to helping you achieve your real estate goals. Call me at 703-283-0969 or email me so we can meet over tea or coffee & I can get to work for you!