Transform Your Outdoors with Farmington Landscaping! We specialize in premium landscape design and installation services, including sod and sprinkler installation, xeriscaping, and custom pergolas. Book a Free Consultation today!

The Complete Landscaping Checklist for New Homeowners in Farmington

Posted by:

|

On:

|

Just moved into a new home in Farmington? Landscaping might not be at the top of your list—but it should be. The right plan can boost curb appeal, increase property value, and prevent expensive drainage or maintenance issues down the road.

At Farmington Landscaping, we work with new homeowners every season. Here’s the essential checklist to get your outdoor space dialed in from day one.

1. Evaluate Your Yard’s Slope and Drainage

Before planting a single blade of grass, check how water flows through your yard. Farmington’s clay-heavy soil and elevation changes can lead to pooling or runoff issues.

  • Make sure water moves away from your foundation
  • Identify low spots where water collects
  • Consider French drains or grading if needed

2. Test Your Soil

Healthy soil is the backbone of a thriving lawn and garden. Buy a soil test kit or have a pro test it to check:

  • pH levels
  • Nutrient deficiencies
  • Clay vs. loamy vs. sandy content

We can amend soil with compost or gypsum to get it ready for sod, grass seed, or plants.

3. Map Out Sun and Shade Zones

Walk your yard in the morning, midday, and evening. Where does the sun hit hardest? Where does it stay shaded?

  • Sun-loving sod types like Kentucky Bluegrass need 6+ hours of light
  • Shade areas are better for mulch beds, trees, or fescue blends

A smart layout will prevent dead patches and wasted water.

4. Decide on Lawn vs. Xeriscaping

Farmington’s dry summers mean water-smart landscaping matters. Consider:

  • Lawn with a smart irrigation system
  • Mulch, native plants, and rock beds for xeriscaping
  • Combination front yards with both

A xeriscaped front yard paired with a sodded backyard is becoming a popular local strategy.

5. Install or Inspect Your Sprinkler System

If your home came with a system, test every zone. Look for:

  • Broken or tilted sprinkler heads
  • Leaks or uneven coverage
  • Smart controller compatibility

No system yet? We can design one from scratch based on your new layout.

6. Plan Out Features: Pergolas, Fire Pits, Paths

Want a patio for family dinners or a pergola for shade? Now’s the time to design:

  • Patio layout and pavers
  • Pergola materials (wood vs. vinyl)
  • Pathways between zones
  • Retaining walls if needed

Get the big pieces in before planting.

7. Plant Trees, Shrubs, and Beds

Anchor your yard with trees first, then add shrubs and flowers. Our team can help with:

  • Drought-tolerant tree options
  • Deer-resistant plants for east Farmington neighborhoods
  • Mulch and edging for clean, low-maintenance beds

8. Lay Sod or Seed

Depending on your budget and timeline, finish with sod or seed. We’ll help you choose the right grass for Davis County’s climate and your sun exposure.


Let Us Help You Get It Done Right

New homeowners have enough on their plate. Let us take care of the landscaping. From first-time installs to fixing inherited yard issues, we’re Farmington’s go-to local pros.