Expert: C.L. Fornari - 4/20/2007

Question
Can you suggest any websites for a do-it-yourself landscape design that would be suitable for Cape COd?

I have about 1/2 acres and it is forested with scrub oaks as well as abbuting a natural area of South Yarmouth where bittersweet, briars and false bamboo grow. The rest is poorly maintained grass and a large area where the new septic was put in this past winter, now sand(just to the right of the driveway, of course!  

I am thinking of a barrier between the woods and yard of flowering trees and bushes with perenials infront.  I would like to use native plants and bird/butterfly attracters, statuary, etc.

The design is what I need most and then I can execute it in stages as time and funds allow.  Can't wait to hear from you!

Answer
Sandy,
I don't know of any websites that offer what you want.  Most design websites are not so regionally focused.  You could go to your local garden centers to look at native plants and bird/butterfly attracters, and then plant them in groups of three or five along the edge of your woods.  The Cape Cod Cooperative Extension may have handouts about native plants. Or you could hire a consultant to give you a plan or advice on-site.  Ask at your local garden center about landscape consultants.

I'm sorry that I can't give you an on-line design source!
all the best,
C.L.