In Florida, one of the most common issues with landscaping is overplanting. The picture to the left is a good example of what I see. This is solely because we get them when they are small and we plant them too close together.

When you live in an area that is warm and plants grow quickly, the most important thing in the landscape, is to really carefully, select varieties that are going to be lower maintenance in the long run.

Sometimes people will say, "well Garden Rebel the reason I planted them like that is because I like a very lush look." Well, I like a lush look too, but there is a difference between an organized lush look, and a jungle mess.

One of the ways to achieve your goal is to remember as a general rule, tall ones in the back, medium ones in the center and lower one in the front. This tiered look or stadium style arrangement, gives each and every plant the ability to reach its full potential.

In my yard, I especially prefer a resort style look, but I am very careful to purposely and artistically place each and every plant. The rhythm and flow is really pretty. I'm very happy with this style. One of the things that I do before I plant any new plants, in any specific spot, is I try to visualize the plant at its full grown maturity. This simple technique is key for long term success.