New homes come with barren lots and a miniscule landscaping budget from the builder, perhaps one tree and five bushes. Older homes often could use some freshening up with the landscape. Whether your home is old or brand spanking new here are a few ideas for easy gardening ideas for landscaping.

Annuals to the Rescue
Annuals are plants that live for one season and then die. While they live they grow and flower profusely. Even if your landscaping plans have not been finalized make use of annuals. Soil preparation is important for permanent plantings. Most annuals will perform adequately in less than ideal conditions. Plant annuals as temporary borders and beds for color. Use seeds instead of flower packs if the budget is tight. After the beds have bloomed or when the plans are finished dig up the annuals, or turn them over to provide 'green manure.' Don't be surprised if the annuals reseed themselves as an added bonus.

Easy Fast Patio
Select the area where the patio should be located. Outline the shape with a garden hose. Dig the area out two inches deep. Use the soil elsewhere in the yard. Rake and level the area. Add stepping stones, pavers, or broken up flagstone spaced about two inches apart onto level soil. Fill in the gaps with pea gravel. Place a 24 inch pot on each corner of the patio to define the boundaries. Plant each pot with an upright bush such as a cypress evergreen and mounding flowers such as petunias.

Hidden Hideaway
Most landscapes are wide open with all areas of the yard viewable from every other area of the yard. Why not create a little nook for your hidden hideaway? A corner of the yard works well especially. Hide unsightly fencing such as chain link with a screen of bamboo fencing. It provides privacy, is inexpensive and easy to attach. Arrange seating such as a chaise lounge, bench or patio chairs. Set a small table by the chairs for resting drinks or a book. Place the seating in the corner of the hideaway. Plant shrubs that grow to six feet high on one side of the area to screen the hideaway from the rest of the yard. Leave one side open. While the shrubs are growing use annual flowers growing up trellises to provide the needed privacy. As a final touch add a small fountain and an umbrella to provide shade.