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Curb Appeal Matters

A welcoming and visually appealing landscape can provide economic benefits.

Article by Southwood Landscape and Garden Center

Photography by Provided

Originally published in Tulsa City Lifestyle

As you walk or drive through your neighborhood, are there certain homes that catch your eye? Chances are, they offer “curb appeal,” which refers to how landscaping—turf, trees, shrubs, flowering plants, and hardscaping—complements the home’s architecture. Real estate professionals say attractive landscapes can increase a home’s value by up to 15% (or more) and speed up its sale by as much as six weeks. Here are some ways to enhance your home’s curb appeal this spring.

A well-maintained lawn is the starting point. Many people take pride in lush, green lawns, often considering them a symbol of excellence. Some neighborhoods even award the best lawns each year.

Trees play an essential role, not only for their beauty but also for the benefits they provide. Many trees bloom with stunning flowers in spring, and their bark can be visually striking in winter. Properly placed trees can shade your home and air-conditioning unit, acting as windbreaks and saving you up to 25% on heating and cooling costs.

Shrubs, both evergreen and deciduous, add color and texture. Popular choices include hydrangeas, azaleas, and boxwoods, but many other varieties are available. A mix of evergreen and deciduous shrubs provides year-round appeal.

Flowering plants, including annuals for seasonal color and perennials that return each year, offer excellent value. They come in various colors, heights, and textures. Adding a layer of contrasting bark mulch can help make these plants stand out.

Hardscaping features, such as concrete or stone paths, borders, and boulders, often require professional installation but provide a durable, attractive addition to any landscape.

Finally, consider a specimen plant—a standout feature that adds a “wow” factor. Dogwoods and Japanese maples are popular choices, but many evergreens can serve this purpose.

If you’re ready to boost your home’s curb appeal, our expert team is here to help. From custom designs to full-scale transformations, our design studio specializes in bringing your vision to life. Visit SouthwoodGardenCenter.com/landscaping to explore our services. As Green Country's largest independent garden center, Southwood is your trusted landscaping partner.