When you think of classic New Orleans landscaping, we know what you’re picturing: leafy ferns in hanging baskets, jasmine-covered trellises, and of course, majestic oaks, adorned with Spanish moss.
While these traditional elements are beloved for a reason, there’s something to be said for wanting your home to stand out.
To help you craft your perfect outdoor space, check out these five fresh New Orleans landscaping ideas for an invigorating twist in your garden.
Let Them Climb
New Orleans is known for its climbing vines, which add a whimsical feel while maximizing space.
And although we love jasmine, there are many beautiful options that grow well here in the Big Easy. Ivy is a perfect choice for an elegant, classical look. However, rather than going for traditional English ivy, try the Swedish variety, which has lovely rounded leaves that give a lusher feel.
The pothos plant, which you generally see in hanging baskets with great draping vines, also loves to climb. Setting these bright, tropical plants up with a trellis or fence allows for them to grow much larger than if hanging.
If you’re looking to add a pop of color, go for a bougainvillea, which comes in a wide variety of shades with delicate crepe-like petals. These hearty climbers like full sun and can stand up to our New Orleans heat.
Drapey Hanging Baskets
Overflowing hanging baskets add an unmatched level of Southern charm to any porch or overhang.
While we love the Kimberly Queen ferns you see dotting French Quarter balconies, there are many varieties to choose from. For a refreshing spin, try the fuzzy tendrils of a foxtail fern or the crimpy curls of a bird’s nest fern.
If you’re looking to branch out from ferns entirely, try planting a basket of succulents. Make sure to include a variety of sedum, such as a burro’s tail, as the long trailing stems look gorgeous in a hanging basket.
Planters, Pots, and Ceramics
Potted plants aren’t just for patios. The combination of lush green foliage, delicate blossoms, and unique pottery textures adds a dynamic impression to any outdoor space.
Potted plants offer the opportunity to incorporate beautiful artistry from your favorite local designers and garden centers, elevating the style and elegance of your yard. Try staging pots of varying heights in layers on a porch or deck for a tiered effect. For a bed, consider partially burying a pot at an angle to allow petunias or succulents to spill out into the garden.
Whether strategically placed on patios and porches, or nestled amidst garden beds, potted plants infuse the yard with bursts of artistry.
Create a Path
Pavers are a great tool in breaking up a monochromatic space such as a lawn.
Consider creating a path with pavers or natural stone to a focal point of your yard, such as a water feature or patio. Irregularly shaped stones create a less rigid, naturalistic effect. When paired with ground cover peeking through the gaps, such as creeping thyme or moss, this design can infuse a touch of whimsy into the landscape.
If you have plenty of square footage in your yard, create a courtyard or a cozy patio with seating. Brick evokes a rustic ambiance reminiscent of classic New Orleans courtyards, while stone can look more sophisticated.
Stamped concrete, on the other hand, is a great cost-effective option that can mimic most other materials.
Just Add Water
Adding a water feature can be a transformative element that brings a sense of tranquility to your outdoor space.
Whether it’s a pond, a fountain, or a waterfall, water has a soothing effect on the senses, creating a peaceful ambiance. If you live in a busier neighborhood, the gentle sound of trickling water can drown out noise pollution on your property.
Visually, water can break up flatness in a yard by adding a shimmering new texture to the space. With the addition of a water feature, a once-ordinary landscape can be transformed into a tranquil retreat, offering a serene space to unwind and enjoy the soothing effects of nature.
Groundcover Over Grass
Boring lawns are out — variety is in!
Asiatic jasmine, creeping Jenny, and even clover are more visually striking options than most classic varieties of grass, adding color and texture to your yard.
Unlike grass, these alternatives also often require less mowing, watering, and fertilizing, making them more environmentally friendly and cost-effective in the long run. These options tend to be more resilient to heat, foot traffic, and pest infestations compared to traditional grass, making them ideal for hot and humid New Orleans.
There are loads of aesthetically diverse groundcover options available that can set your yard apart and add extra value to your home.
Find Quality Landscaping for Any New Orleans Home
From lush gardens to picturesque courtyards, TPG – The Plant Gallery does it all when it comes to residential landscaping and maintenance.
If you’re ready to transform your outdoor space, fill out a free consultation form, and let our expert New Orleans landscapers design the oasis of your dreams!
