A nice landscaping buffer, consisting of several plant species of varying heights and hues, can screen many land uses within or adjacent to a residential neighborhood. You can soften land uses such as parking lots, utility installations, vacant lots, unkempt houses going through probate, or dog parks from presenting a potentially harsh appearance to the public. Also think about how you might be protecting the user of what's behind the landscaping from feeling like they are on display.

Good planting plans also help with deflecting and absorbing stormwater runoff during sudden downpours, tempering high ambient temperatures, and absorbing or diluting pollution.

Of course, this landscaping abundance has to be balanced with concerns about providing ample "eyes on the street" for purposes of crime prevention or a desire to discourage large gatherings of noisy young (or old) folk after dark and away from view.

With careful planning, you can do both. Isn't this better than the open parking lot below, as it appears from a front yard on my block?