The key to low maintenance is the incorporation of labour saving strategies and construction materials into the design of the garden.

During initial groundwork's thought must be given to installation of irrigation and drainage systems. Sufficient access is always desirable to allow for labour saving machinery and provision of convenient compost areas.

The layout must maximise maintenance efficiency. For example, mowing machines must easily follow the outline of the lawn. Paved paths set flush to the lawn minimise time spent on edging.

Plants must be selected upon basis of ability to thrive in the location they are planted. Advantage may be taken of weed control membranes and organic or gravel mulching materials which also conserve moisture.