New Gardens
So you've invested in a new garden installation... Now how do you care for it? Here are a few essential tips to protect your new investment
Watering
Watering basics
The amount of water you give a plant can depend on the plant, the soil type, the light exposure, mulch, etc... The most important thing is that you check your watering system is working properly and work with an irrigation specialist after your landscape is installed.
New plantings need more water than established plants. For the first week water about 1" every day. Each individual plant should be watered at the ground level of the drip line. It is best to water in the morning hours. For the rest of that growing season water perennials 2-3 times a week.
Established perennials need about 1" of water a week. This deep once a week watering encourages deep rooting, as opposed to constant daily quick watering which keeps roots shallow.
It's possible to water too much. Make sure your soil is well draining and there are no puddles or standing water. You may need to have your yards drainage assessed by a drainage specialist if there are problems in your yard.
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Soil
Soil can make a big difference in your garden. Many of our gardens in Michigan can be harsh soil types like clay or sand. We recommend a yearly top dressing of organic compost to problem areas. Improving your soil is a slow process and can take years, but is essential to a thriving garden.
Mulch
Mulch
Hardwood mulch is not only the final touch to a beautiful garden, it is also an important part of soil health. Wood mulches act as insulation and help soil retain moisture. Mulch also improves your soil overtime as it breaks down into compost.
We recomend a top coat application every year to keep 2-3" coverage.
Fertilizer
Fertilizer
Fertilizer is a great way to get your plants looking their best - but it must be done the right way. Wait a year to fertilize newly planted landscapes. Fertilizing too early can hinder natural root development which is imperative to resilient, well-established plants. After your plants are established, fertilize once a year each spring with a mulch application.
Pruning
Pruning
Did you know all of your woody ornamental plants need yearly pruning to stay healthy? We have all dealt with shrubs and trees that have overgrown their space... but that can often be avoided if plants are pruned once a year! Yearly pruning can extend the life of those woody plants that are often the most costly to replace.
Recommended pruning times can differ depending on the plant, but many of the shrubs and trees in our landscape need to be pruned in late winter while they are dormant. Don't miss this crucial gardening task.
New perennials, trees, and shrubs should NOT be pruned or cut back their first season of planting.
Pruning
Weed control
Unwanted plants take nutrients and water from neighboring garden plants. The longer weeds are left to grow, the more they establish and take up more root space in the garden. Regular weeding is the best way to stay on top of weed control.
Weeds are often aggressive invasives and can travel by seed in the air or by deep systematic roots underground called rhyzomes. It can be impossible to avoid invasion, but with regular maintenance we can help you tackle the problem.
Winter protection
frost protection
Certain sensitive evergreens need to be protected from possible winter damage. Boxwoods, azaleas and rhododendrons can be damaged in harsh Michigan winters.
Growth rate
It takes 3-5 years for new plantings to fully establish, so don't be discouraged if your plants aren't overflowing the first year. As long as your plants have proper care your garden your plants with continue to establish and become a lush garden!
Our new series of bird, bat, and butterfly houses provide a safe place for our feathered friends to nest, rest, and enjoy.