The beautiful early spring weather of late has sparked the urge to get out and landscape the yard. Nurseries are filling up with fresh supplies of shrubs, trees and perennials. It is so easy to impulse and binge shop. Whether you are considering a new landscape or renovating an older one, here are a few tips for success.
DO YOUR HOMEWORK FIRST: Drive around local neighborhoods and look at professionally landscaped yards and gardens. Here you can see and feel what is good locally in terms of plants and trees. Make notes and take photos of what you like. Get inspired with live gardens.
SEEK HELP: Since most of us are not trained landscape designers, it pays in the long run to consult a professional. The designer will determine your needs, desires and tastes. While it will cost a bit of money in the beginning, you will save much in the long run. DIY mistakes with landscaping can cost thousands later down the road with tree removal, septic/leach field issues and drainage problems. A good design saves money, increases the value of your home and makes you feel good.
INSTALL IRRIGATION FIRST: Most ignore installing irrigation, but it will ultimately save you time and money in the future. Yes, it is costly, but an efficiently watered landscape will always look beautiful. You won’t have to lug a hose around all summer. Professionally installed irrigation systems increase the value of a home.
DIG YOUR OWN HOLES: Here is where you can save money. Digging holes and planting shrubs and trees in the location advised by the designer takes a strong back, but not too much expertise. Just be sure to research the needs of the plants you install. Don’t be cheap with soil amendments or fertilizers. This is where local nursery folks can help. Remember, young perennials, trees and shrubs need a strong start.
BE PATIENT: A brand new landscape looks a bit thin and small at first. The plants seem like little toys collected on mulch canvas. This old garden saying, “First year they sleep, second year they creep and third year they leap,” is true.
EXPECT MAINTENANCE: Even the “low maintenance” landscapes need regular weeding, grooming and pruning along with fresh mulch and summer watering. Hiring a professional gardener once a month to help out will save you time and keep your landscape looking fresh. Or you can do it yourself if you love to garden and have the time.
Terry Kramer is the retired site manager for the Humboldt Botanical Garden and a trained horticulturist and journalist. She has been writing a garden column for the Times-Standard since 1982. She currently runs a gardening consulting business. Contact her at 707-834-2661 or terrykramer90@gmail.com.
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