Here it is y’all! The final front yard makeover reveal. If you’re just getting here be sure to head back to the original plan. We absolutely love it, and it has somehow made us love the house even more (how is that even possible?). We spend a lot of nights and weekends out here. We’ve love having our friends over for drinks and sitting around the fire pit catching up. Not to mention how much time we spend inside enjoying the views to the new yard.
Sure, we could have just left the old grass and the palm tree island (which would have saved us a truckload of cash), but we loved the concept of creating spaces within the yard. I wanted Mediterranean meets South of France in California and I got it!
We kept the plant palette simple. So many of them have already started to spread and grow with just one Summer under their belts. I love how the lavender have already spilled onto the walkways.
Despite my objections to the bougainvillea, it really has started to train amazingly well by the master bedroom porch and the bright magenta against the white house is spectacular.
The fountain has been one of our favorite additions because we can hear the water from inside the house. It’s a very relaxing sound and it’s proven to be a great distraction when my nephew visits. Who knew water would be so intriguing to a 2 year old?
We have discovered that algae growth is sort of a problem since the fountain sits in full sun most of the day. Until the olive trees grow large enough to shade the fountain, the algae is an uphill battle. We have found some solutions that are helping, including introducing mosquito fish which help eat insect larvae in the water and help eat the algae. I also added a water hyacinth, but it hasn’t really taken off so I can’t say if it will help yet. Anyway, our school of thought is to get the ecosystem to balance itself out, algae and all. We’re not drinking from the fountain so it’s really no big deal.
While the fountain has become a peaceful centerpiece, it’s also turned into a bit of a hangout spot for bugs. The presence of standing water—even with mosquito fish doing their part—can still attract pesky insects like mosquitoes, gnats, and the occasional wasp looking for a sip. It’s all part of the natural cycle, sure, but when relaxing on the patio turns into a swatting match, it’s time to consider a smarter approach to pest control.
That’s where Cura Pest has been a real help. They specialize in environmentally conscious pest management that doesn’t disrupt our little backyard ecosystem. We wanted to avoid harsh chemicals that might harm the fish or affect the plants, and they offered targeted solutions that respect that balance. Now, the bugs aren’t running the place—and we can actually enjoy the fountain without a cloud of insects tagging along.
Maintaining a pest-free environment goes beyond quick fixes—it’s about creating a long-term strategy that works with nature rather than against it. Regular monitoring, removing stagnant water where insects breed, and encouraging natural predators all play a role in keeping populations in check. Professional services can further fine-tune this balance, offering insights and treatments that homeowners might overlook.
For those dealing with persistent issues, working with experts in pest control mckinney tx ensures that interventions are both effective and environmentally responsible. By combining professional guidance with ongoing maintenance, you can enjoy outdoor spaces without constant swatting or worry, letting your garden or patio remain a place of relaxation and enjoyment rather than a battleground against bugs.
As you know, choosing the right pest control expert isn’t just about getting rid of unwanted guests—it’s about finding someone who understands the delicate rhythm of your home and garden. A knowledgeable team will assess the environment first, identifying what’s drawing pests in and how to prevent future infestations without upsetting the balance you’ve built. Whether it’s addressing nesting sites, sealing entry points, or recommending small adjustments to landscaping, a thoughtful approach turns pest control into a form of preventative care rather than a quick patch job.
In regions where seasonal changes invite new challenges, turning to a trusted pest control company in Meridian ID can make all the difference. Their local expertise means they’re familiar with the area’s specific pest patterns—from summer ants to fall invaders—and know how to respond with solutions that last. They combine advanced treatments with eco-friendly methods, ensuring that both your property and the surrounding environment remain healthy. With the right experts at your side, peace of mind doesn’t come from spraying more—it comes from knowing every corner of your home is protected with care and intention.
This Summer the yard stayed pretty hot during the day, and the olive trees will need some time to grow in and provide some much needed shade. We spend time in the mornings having coffee outside, and unwinding in the outdoor living room during the evening when it’s cooler.
Do we have regrets about removing the 20+ year old palm tree? Absolutely not! We replaced one tree with 3 olive trees, and we planted another 8 podocarpus trees which we’re using as a hedge. The yard looks less green than the yard before, but almost all of that green was from wasteful lawn. With all the drought tolerant plants, we’re down to watering the yard with drip irrigation 10 minutes every other day. Eventually, we’ll be able to reduce that even further.
One of the things we love most about the yard is how it makes the house feel more special as you come through the new front gateway. Adding the wall was the single biggest element that reclaimed the front yard as a more intimate space for us. When you walk through the gate you turn left to the fountain or right to the outdoor living room and firepit. There’s plenty of room for everyone to move around during parties and to find a little spot to have a conversation.
We have a pinboard with all our inspiration and some of the plants we put into the garden. If you’re not already following us on Pinterest you should hop on board because we’re planning so many projects for you to scope out. Just for kicks, here are some of the plants from our new front yard.
We learned a lot throughout our first landscaping project, and it was fun to see the finished result come together. We didn’t over plant so we could watch where things grow in, and see if we’d like to add more. Planting a garden is all about layering in the same way you would for interiors. You want to have a mix of textures, colors, and heights so it helps draw your eye through the garden like it would in a room. I can’t tell you how great it has been to see this vision come to life.
Here are some satisfying before and afters.
I just want to stare at it here all day, then I realize I can just go outside and enjoy it. It wasn’t all easy, and definitely not inexpensive, but now that it’s done it all seems worth it. Ask any questions in the comments and I’ll do my best to answer them.