Through the long winter months, sitting in a comfortable chair by the fire, there has been time to prepare. Books and magazines to study, notes made and pages marked. Gardeners are optimists if not planners. Pictures and hand written notes tied us over until spring when the garden shops roll out their racks and we are there waiting like bargain hunters at a President’s Day sale. Ready for the new season’s plants, tools and ornaments, ready to begin on that picture perfect spot. Looking for the right plant, shrub, rock or plume grass to compliment that special place as we make ready to put on our gardening gloves.

Fake rocks are usually cast from real rocks with methods perfected to capture all the detail of a wild rock. We take it all for granted once placed in a lawn setting and the natural color and shadows created give the effect of a form that blends in perfectly with surrounding elements. A big advantage is being able to place a rock exactly the way you want it. Preferred materials are highly durable fiberglass and high density plastic (HDP), making artificial rocks a fraction of the weight of their natural cousins. This makes it possible to enjoy a natural looking arrangement without the backbreaking work.

For a remodeling project that requires new landscaping, homeowners usual want a say in the outdoor décor which often include secluded space for patio parties, hot tubs and jacuzzi. The desire for 360 degree beauty, privacy and low maintenance are points that have to be factored into a professional landscaper’s challenge. And it can be just that - a challenge - when choosing the right landscape elements to compliment a major home renovation. Less area means each decision is very important. Plantings must be functional and esthetic. and any other elements like swimming pools, patios and no pervious rock formations must meet code lend a natural beauty that compliments the overall look.

We have seen, in recent years, a marked change in site and house design. Stone and rock are a big part of this new trend. A material that gives a sense of strength and durability, and when it comes to resale, stone adds value as well. From walls and patios to steps and curving walkways, rock has a growing presence that pleases the eye and establishes a feeling of permanence. Standing stalwart, even in the coldest months rocks add their natural beauty to a garden or lawn, a comforting thought from a window view. Other pluses worth mentioning are the ecology friendly points of no chemicals or watering necessary.

Ideas come from many directions, but once it’s there and plans are made it’s time to spring into action. Creating a special place that has “eye appeal” may call for stone as a functional and unifying element. Laying a meandering walkway or a ring around a hot tub can do a lot. Or, for a focal point to dress up a plain lawn, look to a grouping of a large rocks, clustered with other large greenery of varied shapes and textures like juniper, boxwood and viburnum. Artificial rocks can also be an effective solution, especially for this type of project. And by using artificial rocks you can stay within budget and still have a success story.