Whether you are a novice gardener, lack time for maintenance, are planning your garden from scratch, or simply desire added appeal in your yard, there are many features you can include in your landscaping besides plants. Be sure to use features of personal interest that will complement your home and your lifestyle. The following options offer a few attractive and creative ways to make your yard and gardening areas more functional and inviting.

- Arbors - Arbors are a versatile and unique addition to your landscaping. If properly placed and screened, they provide a very attractive personal space. Arbors can be used to fill space or to direct your attention to another part of your yard or garden. They are perfect for adding a vertical dimension to your landscaping and offer an easy venue for landscaping with vines.

- Fences and Edging - Styles and materials vary for fences and edging, but they can provide beauty, privacy, security and a valuable place for pets to hang out. They can provide privacy, protect and define beds, and add to the aesthetic appeal of your garden. For more on edging and borders, see our website.

- Gates - The use of gates in your garden can create a dramatic first impression. Gates can be decorative, grandiose or simple and secondary to other elements in your landscaping. If located at the front of a garden, the gate should announce that you are about to enter a special space. Gates in combination with paths create a sense of flow. By locating a gate at the back of your garden, they offer the perception of depth. As does a mirror located in a hallway, rear gates can give the impression that your garden is larger than it really is.

- Trellises - Trellises can be used as a focal point in a specific part of a bed, an entryway, for privacy, or to offer a buffer from some undesirable aspect (perhaps your neighbor’s yard?). Whether crafted from wood, steel, or willow, trellises can range from the simple to the elaborate. They can be adorned with roses, ivy, or clematis – or even left bare to provide an element of non-organic charm.

When considering your non-plant garden features, think about the overall theme for your yard, its various uses (dining, entertaining, outdoor living, children’s area, etc.). Be sure to include design elements that you love, such as nautical elements, roosters, symbols of the sun, etc. and will enjoy. Whether your garden is for your cottage, mansion, suburban dwelling, or retreat, these features will add appeal and complete your vision for the perfect outdoor area.

Adding garden features to your garden design is one area where a green thumb isn't required. And simply adding a few of these features could add appeal and complete your vision for the perfect outdoor area.

About the Author:
Article from Steve at The Landscape Design Site which offers several large collections of free garden design ideas, plans, videos, and pictures.