Did you know last summer, a Clarence homeowner lost over $5,000 when their patio crumbled after a brutal winter—because they ignored drainage issues and zoning regulations. 

This story isn’t unique. Many homeowners in Clarence, NY, make similar errors, assuming that Landscaping Clarence NY is as simple as picking the right plants or laying a few stones.

If you’re planning a landscaping project, this blog will walk you through the 5 most common landscape design mistakes in Clarence NY —and, more importantly, how to avoid them. 

Tired of Patchy Lawns and Dead Plants? Let’s Fix It – Contact Local Landscape Contractors Today!

Designing A Landscape In Clarence Can Sometimes Feel Frustrating – Why?

Each morning, when you step outside, you imagine a beautiful landscape design. Instead, what do you see? A mix of overgrown bushes, patchy grass, and a space that doesn’t feel inviting at all. 

Maybe you’ve tried adding some flowers or some decorative items here and there, but your Clarence NY outdoor aesthetics don’t match the vision in your head.

This is the result of poor outdoor space planning!

If you’re like many homeowners in Amherst, Williamsville, Depew, and surrounding areas, you might feel stuck. And we get it! 

You want a yard that looks and feels great, but everytime you start building a landscaping architectural design, something always goes wrong. You feel stuck and overwhelmed, and can be incredibly time-consuming. All of a sudden, you start wondering whether it is even worth your efforts!

Worry not, you’re not alone!

At Soil and Seed Landscaping, we’ve helped countless clients who feel the same way about their landscape renovation in Clarence NY.  The good news is: These landscape design mistakes can easily be avoided with expert Clarence landscaping services.

We bring 10+ years of experience in creating landscapes in Clarence and surrounding areas that reflect your lifestyle and enhance your property’s value.

Ready To Design A Yard That Works For You?  Get a Custom Landscape Plan Today!

Top 5 Design Mistakes In Landscaping Clarence NY

These are some of the common landscaping design mistakes that we often see Clarence homeowners make:  

Landscape Design Mistake #1: Planting Without Planning

Why It Happens?

As gardeners and landscapers, we know how quickly one can fall in love with a plant’s colorful, exotic appearance and bring it home. And guess what? 

Most of us do it without considering where to plant them and, most importantly, whether or not these plants will be the right fit to add to our Clarence landscaping solutions.

Unfortunately, the wrong plant in the wrong spot can lead to constant maintenance, poor growth, and even dead plants. 

This is one of the most common disastrous Clarence NY garden design errors that any homeowner should be aware of. 

How It Impacts Your Landscape?

Imagine you’ve planted a flower bed full of fresh, colorful blooms, only to realize they are scorched by the afternoon heat. How would you feel?

Or maybe you planted shade-loving plants in a sunny spot, and they are struggling to survive. 

When planting plants without a proper Clarence garden layout, you will be left with a yard that doesn’t thrive—and that affects your home’s overall curb appeal and value. 

It’s the opposite of Clarence landscaping best practices.

How To Fix It?

Choose native plants for Clarence landscapes that will thrive in the condition of your garden. 

• For a sunny yard, go for plants like Purple Coneflower, Black-eyed Susan, Bee Balm, New York Aster, and Swamp Milkweed. These plants love the sun and will add color and structure to your yard.
• For shady yards, opt for plants like Wild Ginger, Virginia Bluebells, Ostrich Fern, Red-Twig Dogwood, and Astilbe. These plants are shade tolerant and add depth and texture to less sunny areas.

This way, plants will grow stronger, require less maintenance, and will stay healthy over time. 

Need Help Picking The Right Plants For Your Yard?  Let Our Local Pros Handpick Low-Maintenance, High-Impact Plants That Thrive in Clarence. Call Now!

Landscape Design Mistake #2: Ignoring Clarence’s Soil Types

Why It Happens?

Clarence’s local soil can be really tricky to deal with. Most homeowners have to work with clay-heavy soil, which holds moisture and makes drainage a struggle. 

This dense soil compacts easily and makes it tough for plant roots to breathe and grow safely.

The issue is that most homeowners don’t even realize this when planning for their Clarence NY landscape design. 

As a result, they choose plants that look nice without even realizing whether or not they will work with the soil types in Clarence NY. And this is where all the trouble starts.

It’s one of the most common landscaping mistakes homeowners in Clarence make, leading to a waste of money, time, and effort. 

How It Impacts Your Landscape Design?

If your soil is not properly prepared, your plants won’t get the nutrients or drainage they need. As a result, they will suffer. You will notice slow growth, yellowing leaves, lawn diseases, and plants that just won’t survive the season.

At Soil and Seed Landscaping, we have had clients spend good money on beautiful gardens, only to re-do everything a year later.

A good Clarence NY garden design starts by understanding the ground (soil) you are working with. Skip this, and you’re just throwing money down the drain — something any good landscape design service company would warn you about.

How to Fix It?

Here is what works for us locally: Start by testing your soil.  For clay-heavy soil, mix in compost, peat moss, or gypsum to break up the compacted areas. Then, pick plants that are built for these conditions.

Some of the best Clarence NY drought-resistant plants (also native) include Switchgrass, Eastern Redbud, and New York Asters. These are some of the best plants for Landscaping Clarence NY.

In case you’re unsure where to begin and need some tips, you can anytime reach out to local Clarence NY, lawn care services, or landscaping architectural design experts who know how to work with your unique environment.

From Concept to Curb Appeal – Get Started With Clarence’s #1 Landscaping Team!

Important Read: Seasonal Landscaping Tips for Buffalo NY: Embracing Nature Year-Round

Landscape Design Mistake #3: Poor Winter Preparation

Why It Happens?

In Clarence NY, we’re no strangers to how brutal our winters can be on our landscape. Heavy lake-effect snow, freezing temps, and long cold spells. 

Despite knowing how harsh it is, many homeowners don’t care to prep their landscape before the snow hits — especially new owners unfamiliar with Clarence NY, seasonal landscaping challenges.

We assume that as spring hits, our yard will ‘bounce back’ to health. But without the right Clarence snow preparation – it’s rarely the case. As a result, your patios and plants suffer. 

How It Impacts Your Landscape Design?

As a reputable landscape contractor in Clarence, with over 10+ years of experience, we have seen beautiful gardens and patios ruined by snow-packed roots, frost-cracked stonework, and burst irrigation lines.

Poor Clarence landscape maintenance before winter will lead to costly Spring repairs, and it will hit the curb appeal of your home. In some cases, it might also require a complete landscape rework. 

Your outdoor living spaces in Clarence NY deserve better than that.

How To Fix It?

Winter landscaping doesn’t have to be complicated. All you require is the right winter landscaping tips for Clarence, or seek help from professional Clarence landscaping services like Soil and Seed Landscaping. Our team knows exactly what your yard needs to survive – and thrive – through winter.

Here are some Clarence NY winter landscaping tips:

• Cover the soil around your plants with a deep layer of mulch. It helps insulate roots through the freeze. 
• Reinforce patios, paths, and walls so they hold up against snow pressure and frost-related ground changes.
• Winterize your landscape irrigation systems so it doesn’t freeze up and crack. 

Want a Lawn That Survives Clarence Winters? Book a Prep Session Now!

Landscape Design Mistake #4: Overlooking Local Zoning Laws

Why It Happens?

It’s easy to get excited about your next backyard project — whether it’s a new patio, a beautiful fence, or a charming pergola.  

But here in Clarence, NY, we’ve seen homeowners dive right into the project without realizing that even small landscaping changes require approval from Clarence NY zoning laws for landscaping,

Skipping this step can turn what should be an exciting project into a huge headache. We have seen zoning issues slow down or even shut down great outdoor projects.

How It Impacts Your Landscape Design?

If you ignore the zoning laws in Clarence, you could end up facing fines or—worse—be forced to tear down part of your hardscaping. 

Imagine this: that beautiful retaining wall or the extended driveway you were so excited about could be torn down just because you didn’t get the right permits. 

Also, ignoring these rules can limit your creativity with the garden’s layout and reduce your home’s resale value. Plus, nothing ruins your outdoor vibe faster than having a project half-finished or completely destroyed because it didn’t meet the zoning guidelines.

Important Read: How to Boost Curb Appeal with Professional Landscaping Services

How to Fix It?

Prior to starting your next landscaping or hardscaping project, take time to check zoning laws for Landscaping Clarence NY. 

It’s worth taking a few extra steps to check with the town’s building department or, even better, hire a professional Clarence NY landscaping contractor who knows the ropes. 

A reliable landscaper in Clarence will help you navigate the permit process, figure out setbacks, and ensure your design is safe and sustainable for years to come. 

It’ll save you the stress of dealing with legal issues down the road, and you’ll end up with a design that’s not only beautiful but also built to last and within the rules.

Landscape Design Mistake #5: DIY Hardscaping Disasters 

Why It Happens?

There’s something satisfying and prideful about rolling up your sleeves and creating something with your own hands. However, hardscaping is far more complex than just laying pavers or stacking stones. 

Proper grading, drainage, and a solid foundation demand technical knowledge —and this is where most DIY hardscaping projects fail. 

Unfortunately, we’ve seen countless well-intentioned hardscaping efforts end up uneven, unstable, or needing to be redone entirely. 

How It Impacts Your Landscape Design

Poor landscaping architectural design doesn’t just look unattractive but also creates safety risks and impacts your property value. 

Cracked patios, collapsing retaining walls, and improperly graded paths that cause drainage problems are some common landscape design mistakes in Clarence NY. And these mistakes demand expensive fixes.

Your outdoor living space in Clarence should elevate your home, not become a liability. You don’t want to watch your beautiful backyard deteriorate within a year due to a weak foundation.

How to Fix It

Save yourself the frustration, time, and money by hiring professional Landscaping Clarence NY. Landscaping contractors can help you create custom landscape designs that are safe, stunning, and functional. 

From stone walkways to full outdoor kitchens, local landscaping contractors in Clarence NY, have the skills and experience to ensure long-lasting results. 

They understand our climate and soil conditions, so your hardscaping will stand the test of time.

End the DIY Landscaping Disasters! Let Our Certified Pros Take Over the Heavy Lifting!

Bonus Mistake: Neglecting Outdoor Lighting 

Talking about creating a functional and beautiful Clarence NY landscape design, it is absolutely incomplete without proper outdoor lighting.

Landscape lighting makes your outdoor space feel safe, inviting, and complete. 

Without it, your yard feels incomplete and even uninviting after dark. Not to mention, neglecting your landscape lighting can leave your space feeling unsafe at night.

Why It Happens?

Most Clarence homeowners are more focused on daytime landscaping design services – like beautiful gardens, patios, and walkways. But when the sunsets, the yard suddenly feels unfinished.

Many people in Clarenceview outdoor lighting as optional or as an extra expense without even realizing how important it is for the landscape design of homes in Clarence NY, especially here where winters are long and dark.

Why It Affects Your Landscape Design?

Without landscape lighting in Clarence NY even the most beautiful landscape feels dull, uninviting, and unsafe after dark. It reduces the usability of your landscape — paths, patios, and gardens go unused in the evening. 

Worse, it creates safety hazards on poorly lit walkways and steps, especially during icy Clarence winters. 

A well-designed landscape loses a lot of its charm and functionality when left in the dark, and obviously, your home’s curb appeal suffers, too. 

How To Fix It

The smartest way is to hire professional Landscaping Clarence NY and let local experts design lighting for your outdoor space that’s both beautiful and practical.

And if you’re considering DIY Lighting, our advice is to start with Lighting up the essential areas – your front path, driveway, and main gathering areas.  Go for weatherproof LED or solar lights that can handle our Clarence winters.

Soil And Seed Landscaping:  We Can Help You 

At Soil and Seed Landscaping Clarence NY we know how personal your outdoor space is. We believe it should feel like an extension of your home and your style. 

Whether you’re envisioning a colorful garden, a cozy patio, or a peaceful escape from the world – our team is here to guide you through every step of your landscaping and hardscaping journey. 

We will create custom landscape designs that reflect your personality and work for your lifestyle.

Avoid Costly Landscaping Mistakes. Let Soil and Seed Landscaping Pros Handle It Right!

Let’s Design A Beautiful Garden Together!

Your yard is so much more than just a patch of grass. It can be your sanctuary, your kids’ favorite hangout place, or the go-to spot for family get-togethers. By sidestepping these common landscaping mistakes, you’re paving the way for a space that’s not only beautiful but truly works for you.  

Call Soil and Seed Landscaping Clarence NY today for a free custom quote!

📍 Servicing Clarence, Amherst, Depew, Williamsville & nearby.

FAQs 

Q. WhatTo Consider When Designing A Landscape?

When designing your landscape in Clarence NY, consider factors like your site’s sunlight exposure, soil type, and water availability. Think about your lifestyle needs (entertaining, play areas, privacy) and how much maintenance you’re willing to handle. Opt for native plants like Black-eyed Susan or Eastern Redbud for easy maintenance. Incorporate hardscaping elements like walkways or retaining walls for both beauty and function. Sustainability should be a priority.

Q. What Are The Latest Landscaping Trends in Clarence NY?

In Clarence, homeowners are embracing modern landscaping trends that combine sustainability with style and functionality. Use of native, drought-tolerant plants,perfect for eco-conscious gardening. Low-maintenance designs with perennial gardens, decorative mulch beds, and minimal turf areas are becoming staples in many yards.

Outdoor living is another major focus, with more residents investing in patios, fire pits, and full outdoor kitchens to extend their usable space year-round. Also eco-friendly hardscaping features like permeable pavers and rain gardens are being used to manage runoff while enhancing curb appeal.

To support all of this, smart irrigation systems are on the rise, helping homeowners conserve water while keeping their landscapes healthy and thriving.

Q. How to Improve Landscape in Clarence NY?

To improve your landscape in Clarence, NY, start with quick upgrades like refreshing mulch beds, trimming overgrown shrubs, and planting native flowers such as coneflowers and black-eyed Susans for vibrant, low-maintenance color. AddIncorporate hardscaping features such as flagstone paths or retaining walls to enhance both practicality and aesthetic charm. For long-term success, regular mowing, seasonal cleanups, and soil testing are essential to keep your landscape vibrant and functional throughout the year.

Q. What Are The Best Landscaping Practices in Clarence?

The best landscaping practices for Clarence NY, focus on sustainability and climate adaptability. Planting native species like serviceberry and witch hazel makes your garden thrive with minimal care. Annual mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, while deep, infrequent watering encourages strong root growth. Aerating and fertilizing your lawn in the fall sets it up for a healthy spring recovery. 

For the most effective and tailored results, it’s wise to partner with local landscape contractors who understand Clarence’s specific soil and weather conditions, ensuring your outdoor space remains both beautiful and resilient year-round.

Q. What Are The Common Lawn Care Mistakes in Clarence?

In Clarence, NY, common lawn care mistakes include Mowing the grass too short (below 3 to 4 inches), overwatering, and neglecting soil health. Many homeowners also skip fall cleanups, which leads to mold growth, pest infestations, and lawn suffocation from accumulated debris. Using generic fertilizers without first testing the soil often results in nutrient imbalances. 

These mistakes can hinder the health and appearance of your yard.

Q. How to Plan Landscaping for Homes in Clarence NY?

When planning landscaping for homes in Clarence, NY, start by evaluating sunlight, soil quality, and climate conditions. Use native plants like Purple Coneflower for low-maintenance options. Consider your home’s architectural style and outdoor living needs, and don’t forget to plan for sustainable water management, such as rain gardens or permeable pavers.