Thanks in part to rising home prices and the circulation of inspirational garden photos on sites like Pinterest and Instagram, homeowners have begun to see their front yards in a new light. Not only does a well-designed landscape help highlight the beauty and architectural features of a house, but it also raises a home’s value by improving curb appeal. While an attractive yard may take time and money to create, there are some creative and low-maintenance ways to update your home’s exterior without breaking the bank.

There are some front garden ideas which are universally useful. For instance, nearly every front yard benefits from utilizing a mixture of evergreens and colorful seasonal flowers. By mixing the two you’ll have both year-round greenery and the freedom to add or remove flowering plants as the seasons change. Depending on your climate and commitment you may be able to even make use of flowering evergreens such as azaleas to create a welcoming front yard that requires almost no effort.

However, you should also be mindful of your commitment level and your environment when planning a garden. Every plant has specific watering and sunlight needs. A succulent garden is unlikely to thrive in a shady New England yard, and a fern garden won’t last long in a sun-drenched Southwestern yard.

No matter what front yard landscaping idea you favor, pick plants that are appropriate for your climate and for the specific conditions in your yard and with a little know-how, you can create a front garden that will wow your neighbors and give a boost to your home’s value.