Common Landscaping Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

A well-designed landscape adds beauty, value, and functionality to your property—but even the best intentions can go sideways without the right approach. At Hursh’s Landscaping, we’ve seen it all. Here are some of the most common landscaping mistakes homeowners and businesses make—and how you can avoid them for a thriving, low-maintenance outdoor space.

Poor Planning (or No Plan at All)

Mistake: Jumping into landscaping without a master plan often leads to mismatched plants, inefficient layout, and wasted money.

Solution: Start with a clear design—consider sun exposure, drainage, foot traffic, and aesthetics. Our team can help you create a long-term landscape design that grows with your property.

Choosing the Wrong Plants

Mistake: Picking plants based only on looks without considering the local climate, soil conditions, or maintenance needs.

Solution: Use native and climate-appropriate plants. We specialize in selecting flora that thrives in Central Pennsylvania’s seasons and soil types—minimizing maintenance and maximizing longevity.

Ignoring Drainage

Mistake: Poor drainage can lead to standing water, dead grass, foundation issues, and mold problems.

Solution: Proper grading, French drains, or dry creek beds can solve and prevent these issues. At Hursh’s, drainage solutions are a cornerstone of our landscaping services.

Overcrowding Plants

Mistake: It’s easy to forget how much plants grow over time—leading to cramped roots, poor air circulation, and disease.

Solution: Follow proper spacing guidelines and plan for mature growth. Our designers think long-term, so your landscape doesn’t outgrow itself.

Neglecting Hardscape Balance

Mistake: Too much focus on plants can leave outdoor spaces lacking structure. Or vice versa—too much stone, not enough green.

Solution: Achieve balance by integrating patios, walkways, and natural plantings. We design hardscapes that work in harmony with your softscapes.

Forgetting About Maintenance

Mistake: Choosing high-maintenance designs without the time or resources to upkeep them.

Solution: We can help you select low-maintenance plants, install mulch to reduce weeds, and even schedule regular cleanups to keep things looking great year-round.

DIY Overconfidence

Mistake: Landscaping seems simple… until you realize you’ve installed a patio that floods or plants that die after two weeks.

Solution: Some projects are best left to professionals. Our experience helps you avoid costly rework and delivers results that last.

Avoiding these common landscaping mistakes can save you time, money, and frustration. Whether you’re starting from scratch or trying to fix an outdoor space that just isn’t working, Hursh’s Landscaping is here to help.

Contact us today for a consultation—we’ll help you do it right the first time.