"Kitsch" is defined as "sentimental, vulgar and with bad taste." In your garden, this could mean that you have unnecessary objects or elements that stand out from the rest, because they were not included in the original design and were most probably kept because someone did not have the heart to get rid of them. Your garden can also become "kitsch" if there are too many different plant species and too many colours, making the landscape cluttered and disorganized. You can easily avoid this and still follow your own individual style.

You should plan properly and determine what you want to use the space for. Whether it is for entertainment, a play area or just a place to relax, you should keep the design simple and avoid overcrowding. This can be done by incorporating mostly native plants and by xeriscaping (using drought tolerant plants so less irrigation and water supplies are needed). If you allow room for plants to grow and not plant flowers and shrubs in every open space, the space will remain simple. To create a full garden, choose plants that will grow successfully in the environment. You should also try to choose plants that provide interesting views during every season. Provide for variety, but make sure they do not "clash", because this can easily cause a kitsch look. Plants should complement each other and flowers should be in different shades of a single colour. When you use more than one colour, coordinate them to form a pattern. Plants should add texture, form and colour to a garden to give it a unique edge - not to fill up space.

When you choose materials for your landscape, choose quality. It is good to incorporate groundcover materials that provide sophisticated design and that complement your plants. Avoid clutter by getting rid of unused materials - determine which objects serve no purpose in your yard and which objects will clash with your new design. If necessary and if your budget allows it, start from scratch. Changing patio furniture and decking by using eco-friendly material like Ipe or recycled wood can also make a positive impact on the quality of your design. Place your materials correctly to avoid a clutter or "bad taste" look. Using shrubbery and plants around your house without planning the design first can make the garden look unoriginal or even cliché. You can rather opt for fencing or plants that have more height and provide texture, form and colour. Be very careful when using garden ornaments such as gnomes or glassware. These could work for some gardens, but can ultimately spoil the original design and become kitsch.

Another way to avoid kitsch is to use proper lighting that enhances your landscape as well as the structure of your home or building. It can create an interesting atmosphere and will make walkways, as well as certain plants and features stand out. Incorporate lighting into nature instead of making the lights individual features.

It is very easy to avoid kitsch in a landscape, because it depends on good planning. The best way is to consult a professional designer for accurate tips and sophisticated ideas.