2) For ease of maintenance, use lower growing shrubs under windows, the effect will be pleasing and more natural if the shrubs reach their ultimate height naturally, without any pruning or with very little pruning.

3) Between windows, use taller shrubs. Remember in your selection of shrubs that plants of similar leaf textures group well together.

5) Plant larger, taller plants or small trees just beyond and slightly to the front from the corners to make the house appear larger and soften the vertical lines of the house.

7) Set shrubs far enough away from the foundation so that the plant may grow naturally on all sides. Check the drip line of the eaves and avoid planting where shrubs may get bombarded by water falling off the roof.

8) Allow ample planting space around the entire house, if at all possible. And, if possible, keep necessary walks three to four feet from the foundation.

9) Deciduous trees do a fine job of cooling your house in summer and admitting light in the winter.

10) There are usually three strategic areas of the house that need shade; namely the southeast, southwest and northwest corners. Plant trees at least one-third of their ultimate spread away from the foundation.

11) Orient the shade to the setting sun in your local area. In other words, since the sun reaches its farthest north location during the warmest months, shade trees on the northwest corner should be so located as to give shade in a particular area (a patio, for example) at the time of day when shade will be most needed.

12) Avoid tall plantings in the parkway or toward the intersection of corner lots. Many local ordinances prohibit tall plantings or parkways. However, a ground cover or a low shrubs effect may be desirable to add depth.

13) Low porches that are only a step or two above the ground usually do not need to be bordered by shrubs. Often a ground cover or very low growing shrubs will provide the softening effect that is needed.

15) If immediate or future needs call for it, be sure to provide adequate play areas for children or pets.

16) If you want a vegetable garden, plan a separate area for it and remember most vegetables grow best in full sun and in rows that run north and south.

17) Keep in mind that some plants require regular attention while others require very little attention. If you are inexperienced, start with a few easy to grow varieties.

18) Plan to screen unsightly objects, such as trash cans, clotheslines and power poles. Use hedges, fences or trellises that can be covered with vines.

19) Decide the best way to get the results you want. Large, comparatively expensive specimen plants give an immediate effect, but smaller, less expensive stock may be trained easier and, if necessary, may be moved easier. But beware of cut-rate, low quality plants.

20) Remember that home landscaping is never finished! Plant growth changes and occasionally functional demands will necessitate minor alteration. Your original plan will be a blueprint to build on.