Good landscaping not only adds to enjoyment of outdoor spaces, by adding “curb appeal” it can add 10% or more to a home’s value. Poorly planned or neglected landscaping can have the opposite effect.
Here are some tips on how to keep your outdoor spaces working for you.
Start With a Plan
Whether you’re adding to your landscape, renovating it, or starting from scratch, a good plan will get you off on the right foot.
Different plants have different needs, so be sure to choose species that work with the climate, sunlight, soil quality, and irrigation available. Some things, like soil, drainage, and irrigation are controllable; others, such as climate and sunlight, usually aren’t.
Even a small yard will have micro-climates, so choose plants and trees suited to their location on your property.
Keep Your Landscape Manageable
A lush landscape can be a real asset, but only if it’s well maintained. When planning your landscaping, consider how much work you’re willing to do, or how much you’re willing to spend to have someone take care of it for you.
Sometimes less is more. A few well-placed and well-tended plants make a stronger statement than a neglected or overgrown jumble. Scale your landscaping to your personal reality.
Keep Out Intruders
Some invasive plants are nuisances, others are killers. Keep your eye peeled for weeds and “volunteers” and deal with them before they take over your lawn and beds.
Most lawn weeds like sedge, chickweed, dandelions, and crabgrass can be controlled with proper application of weed killers. Just be sure to use the right ones and choose the least toxic compounds that will get the job done.
Controlling volunteer trees and suckers takes an understanding of the species involved. Attacking them in the wrong way can do serious harm to parent trees and other desirable vegetation. If you’re uncertain, or feeling overwhelmed, a professional tree service will know the right products and methods to use.
Banish Bad Bugs
Not all bugs are bad for your plants. Some are important for pollination, some insects control pests, and soil needs beneficial bacteria to make nutrients available. But cinch bugs, sod webworms, and disease-causing viruses and bacteria can wreak havoc on lawns and other plants and trees.
Various pest control products are available to keep bugs and diseases from overtaking your landscape. Again, choose products carefully, and if you’re not sure, call a pro.
Call Donovan Arborists for a free estimate for all your landscaping and lawn needs at 303-623-8733!
