and under into beds. The short-term expense of stone versus edging may seem pricier, but long-term native stone is a cost-effective, more sustainable solution.” WATER. My plan focuses on taking advantage of natural water flow from rainfall, keeping gutters clean to fill rain barrels, and correcting a poorly drained backyard by adding value and a new feature with a permeable parking pad. “We’re fortunate to still enjoy adequate water resources year round in most of Arkansas,” Penor adds. “Waterfalls that self-regenerate by using a catch basin are growing in popularity and some of our clients are incorporating holding tanks, rain barrels and linking gutter and drainage systems to their design. Efficient systems on timers can help conserve water. “Irrigation systems should be thoroughly inspected when placed back in service each spring to make certain sprinkler heads are operating properly and not blocked by mulch or plants,” he says. “Avoid wasting water by matching your system to your lawn – if you only need to water five feet, use a five-foot sprinkler head.” He encourages homeowners to follow municipal guidelines for the best times to water, but admits he typically waters just a bit earlier. Bee balm(Monarda didyma), also known as Wild Bergamot, is a fragrant native providing a wonderful addition to a sunny spot in your garden.
Photo by Mozart DeDeaux, Pascagoula River Audubon Center
PLANT, TREE SPECIES. New hybrid species offer gardeners longer, more and better blooms, but remain unproven by the test of time. Native plants and trees predictably provide yearround blooms, fragrance and landscaping solutions because of their successful adaptation to their ecological niche*. Penor sometimes uses River Birch, a tree native to Arkansas, in areas that hold water versus installing drains because the root system thrives on moist soil thereby eliminating excessive moisture. Several Arkansas nurseries specialize in native plants and trees, and some large retailers now offer a selection of these species that are better adapted for regional success, require no/low maintenance, and are preferred by pollinators and insects critical to healthy gardens and lawns.
High hopes, low impact
Planning and working with a professional landscaper has inspired me to dig deeper, pardon the pun, into learning more about plant species, water use and conservation, and how to make the most of existing features and plants. I’m also heeding the advice of a friend’s mother who says, “I just pay attention to nature. You rarely see a budding oak tree that has been frost-bitten!” *To learn more about native plants, read “Bringing Nature Home,” by Douglas W. Tallamy. 16 | Arkansas Wild March/April 2011
Planning Ahead
Calendar
Careful consideration of yard design, plant material by location, and maintaining landscaping and systems for optimum beauty and efficiency can save money and precious resources. Seasonal differences may apply to your location. Courtesy of Picture Perfect Grounds. January-February • Plant trees • Prune most blooming anchor shrubs • Trim ornamental grasses, perennials • Remove leaves from lawn • Clean gutters • Add compost, leaves, manure to beds and garden • Plan an area for wildlife – hummingbird, butterfly gardens • Separate native plants while dormant • Begin a gardening journal and build a calendar specific to your yard March-April • Clean plant beds • Address mulch needs: remove/add • Clear perennial and bulb beds of debris • Plant new perennials and annuals (beware of last frost!) • Thatch grass yourself or schedule professional to aerate lawn • Clean or add water features • Check irrigation systems for optimum performance • Prepare rain barrels – clean screens, begin collecting water • Install lighting (go solar!) before adding plant material to beds May-June: • Maintain lawn • Trim shrubs • Install outdoor kitchens, living areas for great fall Arkansas weather • Clean or add fire pit, outdoor fireplace • Plant new natives for fall migration, pollinators • Mark native plants while in bloom for easier maintenance next winter July August • Install sod • Check irrigation system for efficiency, control waste • Plan for Fall: planting trees, adding perennials? • Great time for designing, planning • Trim annuals and perennials for second burst of blooms • Thinking compost bin or area? Research and install September-October • Plant winter blooming bed plants • Add bulbs – tulips, daffodils • Rainy season so no irrigation worries! • Make photographs • Review gardening journal and begin your calendar for next year November December • Leaf removal, clean gutters • Winterize irrigation systems, water features • Drain rain barrels to prevent freeze damage • Cover fish and decorative ponds to protect from leaves • Plant trees