Who doesn’t dream of stepping outside and feeling like they’re on vacation? The good news is, you don’t need a plane ticket to find paradise—you can build it right in your backyard. The pandemic is over, but having a great outdoor living space is still a source of pride for many homeowners. So, with a few wise choices—like adding a water feature, putting in a pool, and choosing the right plants—you can turn your outdoor space into the best spot on your property (or even the whole neighborhood)
1. Make Water the Star
Best Rockland County NY Landscaping Design Team
Water features have exploded in popularity, and once you’ve heard the sound of a backyard waterfall, you’ll understand why. A pond or small stream instantly changes the vibe of your yard. Bring your space back to nature with flowing water or match the surrounding creeks and rivers we see throughout Rockland County.
- Add aquatic plants (even night-blooming lilies!) to bring color and texture.
- Stock it with koi or goldfish for movement and life.
- Surround it with a deck or patio so you can enjoy it up close.
It’s calming, beautiful, and way more interesting than grass. What you may not know is that maintenance is also easier than traditional lawn care. Less to do, better looking, and more relaxing to be around; what’s not to love?
2. Dive Into a Pool
Really want to level up? Nothing says backyard oasis like a new pool installation. Gone are the days of boring concrete swimming holes in the backyard. Today, pools are “better, stronger, faster”. Well, if they were a superhero, then yes, but in reality, they are energy efficient and built to last.
- Variable-speed pumps save money and keep your water sparkling.
- Phone-controlled automation lets you set lighting, heating, and water features without touching a switch.
- Proper installation means your patio won’t crack or sink later.
Pools aren’t reserved for huge properties or huge budgets—it’s a lifestyle upgrade loved by everyone in the household that can work on almost any budget.
3. Don’t Forget the Dirt
Here’s something people overlook: your soil matters. Good soil means vigorous plants, fewer problems, and a healthier yard overall. Loamy soil with compost mixed in is ideal, and checking your pH will help make sure your plants truly thrive. Think of it as giving your garden the right foundation to grow on.
4. Pick the Right Trees and Plants
Big, shady trees and lush greenery make a yard feel like paradise. But if you’ve got deer wandering through, you’ll want to stick with plants they’re less likely to munch on—like River Birch, Blue Spruce, and Boxwood.
These options give you privacy, color, and structure without becoming deer snacks. Our five most popular trees and plants (outside of the above-mentioned) include:
- Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum)
- Red Maple (Acer rubrum)
- London Plane Tree (Platanus × acerifolia)
- Evergreen Shrubs – Rhododendron & Others
- Native Shrubs – Viburnum & Ninebark
We love discussing options and providing ideas based on your current landscaping, surrounding foliage, and the vibe you’re looking for.
5. Even Small Yards Can Shine
Got a smaller property? No problem. With newer soil options like CU-Structural Soil, you can plant trees right next to sidewalks or patios without worrying about the roots destroying the pavers with roots over time. It means you can still get that natural, shady feel, even in tighter spaces without worrying about, “what will this look like in 20 years”.
Don’t Wait Until Next Year
The point of these changes is to create a backyard paradise, which is about making your outdoor living space a place you genuinely want to hang out. Whether that’s lounging by a koi pond, swimming in your new pool, or just sitting under the shade of a tree—it’s all about bringing comfort and relaxation outside.
At Pro Cut Landscaping & Construction, we make that happen. From ponds and pools to patios, trees, and everything in between, we’ve got the skills (and licenses) to handle the whole project. You just get to enjoy the finished paradise from the best Rockland County NY landscaping design team around.