Keeping Garden Dreams Off Collision Course

Though you probably won’t agree with your partner on every detail of your landscape, it’s possible to come to a compromise regarding your yard. Keep the following tips in mind:

* Before planning any landscape change, sit down and make it clear to each other what you want. What does your dream garden look like? Explain it. You may find you have completely different ideas.

* Peruse magazines, roam your neighborhood and visit public gardens and nurseries, taking notes on what you like and don’t like regarding plants, hardscape and design.

* Think about your intended uses, said Garden Grove landscape designer Stormi Weathers, who suggests that couples answer the following questions: How much time do you want to spend working in the garden? Do you need play areas for children? Do you want a lawn? Will you be entertaining outdoors? Would you like a pool? Vegetable garden? Greenhouse? Compost bin? Storage shed? Gazebo?

Answering these and similar questions will help you narrow in on what it is you want and enable you to focus on those areas in which you agree.