Learn How to Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal

Kelly Tuttle and Terry McMahon, landscape designers from Borst Landscape and Design in Allendale, will address members and guests of the Wyckoff Garden Club on Jan. 13 on "Front Yard Design."

The presentation will focus on steps homeowners can take to beautify their homes' entrances and boost a home's curb appeal.

The free presentation will be held at the James A. McFaul Environmental Center on Crescent Avenue. Doors open at 9:30 a.m., and the presentation will begin promptly at 10 a.m.

"Whether trying to attract home buyers in a tough real estate market or to create an image for your property, what visitors see first sets the tone for everything that follows," McMahon said.

The designer stresses the importance of choosing the correct plantings and hardscape layout. Well-placed walkways and expanded front step areas ensure a home's entrance is gracious and inviting.

Tuttle emphasizes choosing trees and shrubs that fit with the home's overall architecture as key elements to enhancing curb appeal as well as four-season color. "There are year-round opportunities to add color and interest to beds, which refreshes the front yard's entire look," she said.

The landscape designers will share other tips such as how to use gardens in small spaces or hardscape areas to create a homey feeling; installing landscaping lighting to accent paths, highlight a garden's colors and textures and provide a feeling of warmth and security during evening hours; and the importance of keeping landscaping well-trimmed and maintained to protect the investment.