1. Figure out your must-haves. Compromise is a big part of planning a garden. While we'd all love a fish pond, a hot tub, and beautiful landscaping, there's a good chance that you won't be able to have everything you want in a defined amount of space. Before jumping in headfirst and going crazy at the garden section of Home Depot, spend some time wandering around your garden at different times of day to help you figure out what will enhance the space even more. What are the elements that you can't live without in an outdoor area? Do you love to entertain outdoors? Is a patio and outdoor dining area a must for you? Make sure to incorporate those aspects, then base the rest of your garden around it.