What is softscape?
Softscape comprises the living, planted elements of a landscape, such as trees, shrubs, turf, perennials, and groundcovers, as opposed to constructed hardscape features.
Softscape includes all the living, growing elements in a landscape: trees, shrubs, grasses, perennials, groundcovers, and flowers. These materials form the organic foundation of outdoor spaces and change seasonally, develop over time, and require ongoing maintenance such as watering, pruning, and fertilizing.
In Austin's landscape, softscape choices are particularly important given the region's climate and native plant palette. Native Texas species like esperanza, esperanto, and native grasses are common softscape selections because they tolerate heat, drought stress, and the local soil conditions. Deciduous trees provide summer shade and winter light, while evergreens offer year-round structure.
Softscape works in contrast to hardscape (patios, walkways, retaining walls, irrigation systems). The best landscape designs balance both: hardscape creates structure and function, while softscape adds color, texture, wildlife habitat, and the living quality that makes a yard feel complete. Together, they define how an outdoor space looks, feels, and performs. Landscapers in Austin often specialize in one or both disciplines, depending on their expertise and the needs of each project.