Balance is an important element of design in a landscape. When a landscape gets out of balance, it can be hard to focus on what is attractive about a house and its surroundings.

According to Jerry Goodspeed, Utah State University Extension horticulturist, there are two types of balance. The easiest to visualize is symmetrical. This means both sides of the landscape match perfectly. Although it may be easy to visualize, it is often difficult to maintain, and has a rigid, formal look.

“Symmetrical balance is best left to formal gardens like those surrounding a mansion in Italy or a castle on the Mediterranean,” said Goodspeed. “Symmetrical balance usually conjures up images of guards and royalty, but generally does not provide a comfortable feeling for most homes. There are also other problems associated with it. If both sides of the landscape must mirror each other, what happens when one of the shrubs or trees dies? If a matching replacement can’t be found, the landscape is out of whack.”

Formal landscapes also take more time if they are maintained properly, he said. They must be trimmed and pruned on a regular basis, and any plant that doesn’t look balanced can quickly become an eyesore.

The other form of balance is called asymmetrical. This kind of landscape design is balanced, but one side does not mirror the other, said Goodspeed. Asymmetrical design is based on the idea that balance can be achieved through different sizes and shapes with the same weight, but not the same look.

“An example of this type of design is to plant several trees and shrubs on the opposite side of the landscape from the garage and driveway, which is the heaviest side of most landscapes,” said Goodspeed. “Another example is planting a bed with many colorful perennials and shrubs, (horizontal and color weight), to balance the other side of the landscape which has a smaller bed, but contains a couple of trees (vertical weight).”

Asymmetrical balance is a little harder to visualize and achieve; however, it is softer to the eye and offers a more welcoming, inviting feeling, he said. It is also easier to maintain. If one shrub or plant dies, it usually doesn’t draw much attention. Because an asymmetrical landscape is more informal, it is generally more relaxed and friendly.

A well-maintained landscape doesn’t have to be full of flowers or designed by a professional in order to look good, Goodspeed concluded. A pleasing landscape simply requires care and sweat.