Whatever one you like, find easy to use and is the right price. It is important to understand that any landscape design software - even a professional CAD system - is only a tool....just like paper and pencil on a drafting board is. It won't help you to design unless you already understand the underlying landscape design principles. All it can do or is intended to do is assist in the visualization.

I used Realtime Landscaping. I found it most useful to figure out where I was going to plant large trees and shrubs, but not so much for perennials and annuals.

Thanks for the response. I checked out Realtime Landscaping and can't figure out their pricing and use. They mention $99 for Plus and $149 for Pro with the "no monthly fees" caveat. Does that imply that the software is web base and there may some other fees for usage... or is it just a $99 or $149 one time charge... or is that per year or what?

My goal is to draw (for visualization) our lot, house, outbuilding, existing trees, etc and then draw/create different layouts that minimize grass and emphasize low maintenance plant beds... plus pathways, benches, a patio or deck, planters, bird baths, and a possibly a garden pond for Koi or whatever. We will consult with our local nursery and online for best choice plant material... but already have collected some idea's from surveying other landscaping in the area.

Thanks for any other suggestions or comments.

Realtime Landscaping is a software you install. The fee covers the version you purchase. If a new version comes out. you pay a fee to upgrade. But upgrades are not required.

For visualization only, this is a great option:

https://www.ideaspectrum.com/home-landscaping-software/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIocuA0vvW8gIVh7fICh1LhgNZEAYYAyABEgKFZfD_BwE