Creating a Plan
When adding landscaping in stages, it is important to have an overall plan. You may modify the plan, but at least you?ve defined the overall style and shape of the garden. Also, this allows you to add plantings in stages and have the whole yard blend together in the end.
 
To do the plan yourself, start by measuring the yard and its various elements. Use some graph paper to draw it to scale. Here are the main elements:

• Hardscapes -- walkways, patio, deck, fence, driveway
• Large trees -- do they cast shadows that will affect grass growth or overall shade?
• Shrubs -- list bloom patterns if applicable
• Flower beds -- list perennials (color and when they bloom) and locations for annuals

 
Also draw in notations to indicate sun/shade patterns, so you know what areas receive.
 
What to Keep
Decide how much of the existing landscaping you want to keep. Can you remove it (and dispose of it) yourself or should you call a landscaping company?
 
Your Ideas
If you like or have had success with certain plantings, make a separate list of them. Look through books, neighbors yards, etc. for ideas on other plants and shrubs. Try to add a range of bloom times, colors, etc.
 
When it's time to start, add elements in the following order: