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The landscaping elements that add the most value are often the basics. A well-maintained, attractive lawn can have a return on investment (ROI) of up to 217%. Routine lawn maintenance, such as edging and mulching, can provide an ROI of over 100%. Other high-value projects include upgrading your front walkway, which can offer a 100% ROI, and planting trees. Projects like adding decks, patios, outdoor lighting, irrigation systems, fire pits, and outdoor kitchens also add value and enjoyment, though their direct financial ROI may be less than 100% in some cases.

A base layer is typically required when installing artificial grass, and the specific materials depend on the surface where the turf is being placed.

If you are installing artificial grass over soil, you should lay down a sub-base and a weed barrier.

• Weed Barrier: A fabric weed barrier, weed membrane, or geo-textile paper is essential to prevent weeds from growing through and damaging the turf.

• Sub-base: This layer provides drainage, support, and prevents the turf from sinking. Common materials include a mixture of gravel and sand, such as crushed miscellaneous base (CMB), decomposed granite, decomposed limestone, or a specifically mixed road base. Other options include silica sand and granite sand.

If you are placing turf over a hard surface like concrete, you can often skip the sub-base and use a padded underlayment or shock-absorbent material like astro-cushion for comfort and safety.

If you are unsure which materials are best for your specific project, it's a good idea to consult with an artificial turf installer.

The best time to lay mulch depends on the type of mulch and the reason for installing it: 

• Summer: Adding extra mulch helps soil retain moisture and keeps weeds at bay, allowing plants to thrive. 

• Fall: Adding mulch helps control weeds and keeps soil and roots warm during the cooler months. Aim to add a layer of mulch 2 to 4 inches deep.

• Winter: Mulch around perennial plants to help keep them insulated.

• Spring: Wait until the ground has thawed. Depending on the thickness, add between 1 and 4 inches of mulch to provide freeze and rain protection and enrich the soil.

Gravel driveways require regular maintenance because the material can shift over time. Routine tasks include raking the gravel to ensure an even layer, filling in ruts or low spots, and removing debris, especially after storms. You should also add fresh gravel as needed to prevent potholes, remove weeds by hand or with an herbicide, and occasionally spray the driveway with water to reduce dust.

Periodically, you may need to grade and level the entire driveway, which is often done every few years. Any refilled potholes should be compacted; for excessive dust, you can use a mechanical compactor. To minimize future maintenance, ensure the land is properly graded before installation and consider laying down landscaping fabric to help keep the gravel in place. In areas with heavy rain, reinforcing the edges can help prevent erosion. Additionally, it's best to avoid using a snowplow on a gravel driveway during the winter.