Beginner Gardening: Need help with landscaping., 1 by Diana_K

Diana_K wrote:
I am not sure I understand where you want things. Here is a concept.

Next to the house a planter area. Larger around the tree, tucked in pretty narrow (2-3') near the wall.
Next to the porch a step down (match other side).
Between the steps a planter with flowers, perhaps a small vine to climb the trellis.
Most of the area could be a paver patio.

Pavers are shaped concrete, sort of like brick, though they are getting more creative, making some stone shaped pavers. Used in a large area, placed close (touching) to make patio or walkway. Installation involves excavating soil and installing a special kind of rock that compacts, then a dusting of sand, then the pavers. Broom over the pavers with sand or a specialty product that will work its way between the pavers so they won't shift.

Flagstone is irregular shapes of rock, flat, but otherwise not shaped. 2-3" thick if you are not mortaring them down on top of concrete.
They can be set down individually, spaced out as a walkway (30-36" on center) or can be placed closer to make an informal patio. Often plants are planted between the stones to make a living patio. Select large stones (50 lb minimum) otherwise they shift or may break.