20 Front Entry Landscaping Ideas

By the Viral Info team · Updated November 2026 · 3 min read

20 Front Entry Landscaping Ideas

The front entry is the first thing visitors notice, so a little landscaping goes a long way. These 20 front entry landscaping ideas cover paths, planting, lighting and finishing touches that boost curb appeal.

Planting by sun

Item Why it works
Full sun Lavender, salvia, ornamental grasses
Part shade Hydrangea, astilbe, heuchera
Full shade Hostas, ferns, Japanese forest grass
Evergreen structure Boxwood, yew, holly
Small tree Japanese maple, dogwood, serviceberry

Paths and hardscape

  1. Lay a curved stone or paver path to the door.
  2. Widen the path to at least 1.2 m near the door.
  3. Add wide stone steps with planting pockets.
  4. Edge beds with steel or brick edging.
  5. Use gravel borders for a low-maintenance look.

Planting

  1. Flank the door with clipped boxwood spheres.
  2. Plant lavender along the path for scent.
  3. Add hydrangeas for big summer blooms.
  4. Use ornamental grasses for movement.
  5. Plant a small specimen tree like a Japanese maple.
  6. Layer plants from tall at the house to low at the path.
  7. Add seasonal bulbs for spring colour.

Lighting

  1. Install low path lights along the walkway.
  2. Uplight a feature tree at night.
  3. Add step lights for safety.

Finishing touches

  1. Place large matching planters by the door.
  2. Mulch beds for a tidy look.
  3. Add a bench or bistro chair if space allows.
  4. Hide utility boxes with screens or shrubs.
  5. Keep the lawn edge crisp.

Tip: Call your local utility locator service before digging, use outdoor-rated low-voltage lighting installed to code, keep paths and steps even and well lit to prevent trips, and check plants are not toxic if you have curious children or pets.

FAQ

What are the best plants for a front entry?

Evergreens such as boxwood for structure plus hydrangeas, lavender and grasses for seasonal interest.

How do I make my front entry look inviting?

Create a clear path, frame the door with planters and add warm lighting.

What is low-maintenance front yard landscaping?

Gravel, evergreen shrubs, perennials and mulch with minimal lawn.

Keep reading

You may also like