Owning a cabin in the mountains seems to be the epitome of mountain life. You have probably spent time making sure the interior of your cabin provides the rustic vibe you were looking for, but there may be something missing from the exterior. Proper mountain landscaping.
The mountains leave you open to many ideas the flat lands do not provide so do not limit your imagination. Think about what you typically see when you go on a hike through the woods. What are some of the most beautiful aesthetics you stumble across?
Good landscaping not only adds beauty to your property, but could also up the value.
Know where you are digging.
Before you begin any project, have your local utility company come out and mark where your underground utilities are located. This way you will not accidentally dig into buried wires and pipes.
Do your research
Research the mature height and width of trees and shrubs before you plant. You don’t want mature plants growing into your cabin or the powerlines overhead.
Use native plants
When you use plants native to the area, you know they will be able to survive the cold winters and wet fall provided in the High Country of North Carolina.
Think of Mother Nature
When you begin planting think about how Mother Nature spreads out different types of flowers and trees. Attempt to plant this way.
Forget your list
Most homeowners come to us at Mountaineer Maintenance with a specific list of what they would like planted. Your landscaper typically has a designer’s eye and will see your turf differently than you. By that, they will know where a large tree should go and where to put a multi-stemmed bush.
Know the hardiness of your zone
Your landscaper is going to know what plants are going to be able to survive the weather in the mountain regions of North Carolina. Keep yourself up-to-date by checking out the USDA’s Plant Hardiness Zone Map to find articles about different plants and what they are able to survive.
Sunlight in your region
If your cabin is already in a shady area do not expect to get flowers in need of full sunlight. This also works vice-a-versa.
Think about maintenance
Of course, no landscape is without maintenance. If your cabin is a second home, you will need to think about having a landscaper come out and tend to your landscape. You are able to save yourself some time by planting plants native to the area that are perennials, shrubs, and trees that do not require extra pruning and watering. If you enjoy gardening think about a vegetable garden or colorful annuals.
Watch boulder placement
One common mistake when landscaping in the mountains is simply placing a boulder on top of dirt. When you find boulders in nature, you will notice the boulder is partially underground. This makes it look as though you have placed an egg in the middle of your yard.
Get some shade
If you don’t already have trees that provide shade in your yard, you may want to plant some. When planted on the west side of your property they will protect your cabin from the heat of the afternoon sun.
Leave space
If your cabin is made of log, you are going to want to make sure to leave approximately 3-5 feet of space in order to let airflow. This will assist with keeping your home free of mildew and mold. It also helps in reducing fire risks.
Mulch, mulch, mulch
It is best to use organic mulch to add nutrients to your soil and help hold in moisture. Do your best to keep pine straw and wood mulch away from your house. These types of mulch tend to attract termites.
Try not to feed the deer
Residents of the High Country know deer are extremely prevalent, and they eat just about everything. Don’t spend a ton of money on a small tree deer are going to gnaw down to the ground in a week. Ask Mountaineer Maintenance about trees that may be more deer-resistant in your area. However, no plant is deer-proof!
Watch out for invasive plants
Use caution before purchasing invasive plants to your area. You can find a list of invasive plants in the mountains of North Carolina here
Raised gardens are your friend
Flat landscaping has the possibility of being a little boring. A raised garden with several levels and heights of bushes and trees can make your landscape more exciting.