First time homeowner, would love landscaping/gardening ideas for front yard and backyard! Zone 7a New Jersey

[CBryan]

Zone 7a New Jersey.

It's spring time and I'm motivated to try to add some curb appeal and a nice garden in the backyard. I would love ideas. I am willing to tear out existing plants to create a new look.

There is going to be a walking path (pavers or concrete slabs) added soon in the dirt area and the lawn will be cut, so apologies for the messy yard!

I look forward to your suggestions. I am so stumped/not creative when it comes to gardening/landscaping.

 

[Esther Knapicius]

Have a bunch of garden mags I can give you full of ideas. Bottom line, a good garden takes years . Spent many winters with books, blank paper and making lists, finding unique etc.
I know you are asking for help, first thing is what is your Zone.

 

[CBryan]

Have a bunch of garden mags I can give you full of ideas. Bottom line, a good garden takes years . Spent many winters with books, blank paper and making lists, finding unique etc.
I know you are asking for help, first thing is what is your Zone.

The options are so overwhelming!

My zone is allegedly 7a primarily, but can also be considered 7b.

 

[Esther Knapicius]

The options are so overwhelming!

My zone is allegedly 7a primarily, but can also be considered 7b.

Take your time .

 

[Meadowlark]

Welcome @CBryan

Azaleas are one of my favorites...very low maintenance. The encore variety blooms more than once a year...but you should really plant what you like.

One thing that can help is to walk around the neighborhood and see what others use and of those what you like. Most neighbors are happy to chat about their plants...or at least they used to be.

 

[oneeye]

The smartest thing you can do in the beginning is have your soil tested. When you know what kind of soil you are working with, you can match the best plants with the soil. You can spend $35 and get a basic soil test. One of the good things with a soil test if you tell them what you want to grow the soil lab will give you recommendations. Good luck keep us posted.