If you’re considering landscaping your Toronto home, you’ll want to know what’s allowed and prohibited in the city. Moreover, you should also know the rules and regulations for landscaping in Toronto.
Here are some tips and ideas for your yard. Read on to learn more about the types of plants you can use, and the different types of services companies provide. Also, check out this guide to Toronto landscaping rules. Listed below are some tips on landscaping in Toronto.
Hardscape vs. Softscape
To improve the look of your property, you may want to consider hardscape versus softscape in landscaping in Toronto. Hardscape is a design that protects the soil from erosion, while softscape features add color, texture, and decoration.
Softscaping can also protect soil from corrosion and add accessibility to the garden area. Ideally, the combination of hardscape and softscape will create an overall aesthetically pleasing to the eye and the senses.
While both styles have advantages, there are a few essential differences between the two types of landscaping in Toronto. A hardscape includes significant features and materials. A softscape uses plants and flowers to soften the lines and shapes of a hardscape design.
Hardscape can be used for patios and walls, retaining walls, and various other features. The difference in materials can also affect how water flows throughout the landscape.
Rules and Regulations for Landscaping in Toronto
If you’re looking to add more beauty to your home, there are a few rules and regulations that you need to know about before you start landscaping. The City of Toronto has specific bylaws regarding the landscaping of residential properties. In addition, there are guidelines for both soft and hard landscaping. Hard landscaping, however, involves challenging surface areas that don’t allow for planting vegetation. In Toronto, laneway setbacks must be less than seventy-five percent soft landscaping.
In Toronto, the city has different rules for soft and hard landscaping. Soft landscaping, also called soft-scaping, involves adding plants and trees to your property, while hard landscaping includes retaining walls, walkways, and other architectural elements. To avoid violating the rules, getting a permit from the city is best. Hard landscaping is prohibited in the GTA, and you may have to pay a fine.
Plants That can be Used for Landscaping
While Toronto is largely Zone 6 in USDA and Canadian terms, its proximity to the Great Lakes and other bodies of water moderates temperatures and increases precipitation; however, a few climate extremes can be pushed higher depending on the exact GTA landscape. For example, plants near Lake Ontario may be in a microclimate of Zone 7 in Canada. Conversely, a plant may be in a zone lower than its USDA or Canadian classification in more exposed areas.
If you plan to landscape your Toronto property, it is a good idea to research every aspect of the process before starting. First, make a budget and stick to it. Second, choose an overall theme. This will tie everything together and guide plant selection. Check out photos of other people’s landscapes to get an idea of what kind of theme you want to create. Generally, simple pieces will blend well with your home’s architecture.
Companies That Provide Landscaping Services in Toronto
For a beautiful and inviting garden, you should hire companies that provide landscaping services in Toronto. There are many options available to you, from traditional hardscape to softscape. These services offer a high level of quality and affordable prices.
You can contact GTA decks if you’re looking for a company that provides both types of services. Contracting. Their softscape services make the most of existing landscaping, saving you money and effort.
Suppose you’re looking for a company to complete your backyard landscaping project, GTA Decks. In that case, Deck building Contracting specializes in a wide range of projects, including interlocking driveway paving, decking, swimming pools, railing, and putting greens. Their professional team pays attention to details to ensure the best possible design.
With ten years of experience working in the greater Toronto area, GTA decks Contracting has a wealth of knowledge in the field and will work with you to get the job done right.
