A CHECKLIST: Maintaining A Garden All Year Beautiful Beautiful

BY ANGELA INSBROOKE

1PLAN YOUR DESIGN: Take the time to plan out your landscape design in advance. Consider the layout of your yard, the types of plants and flowers that will thrive in your climate, and the features you want to include, such as a patio or water feature.

Maintaining a pretty landscape all year requires a bit of planning and effort, but the end result is well worth it. Here is a checklist of steps to follow to ensure that your landscape stays looking its best throughout the year.

PLANTS: Select plants and flowers that are wellsuited to your climate and soil conditions. Research which plants are drought-resistant, sunloving, or shade-tolerant and choose accordingly.

WATER REGULARLY:

Proper watering is essential for keeping your landscape looking its best. Water your plants deeply and consistently, making sure to give them enough water to reach their roots. Avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot.

3MULCH YOUR BEDS: Mulching your flower beds helps to retain moisture in the soil, suppress weeds and regulate soil temperature. Use a mulch that is appropriate for your climate, such as wood chips or pine straw.

FERTILIZE REGULARLY: Feed your plants the nutrients they need to grow and thrive by fertilizing regularly. Choose a fertilizer that is appropriate for your plants and follow the recommended application instructions.

PRUNE REGULARLY: Pruning helps to maintain the shape and size of your plants, as well as promote healthy growth. Be sure to prune your plants at the right time of year, and use clean, sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plants.

PROTECT YOUR PLANTS FROM PESTS AND DISEASES: Keep an eye out for pests and diseases that can damage your plants. Use natural remedies or appropriate pesticides as needed, and remove and dispose of any infected plants to prevent the spread of diseases.

By following these steps, you can keep your landscape looking beautiful and well-maintained all year long. With a little bit of planning and effort, you can create a landscape that is a source of pride and enjoyment for you and your family.

ADD ACCENTS: Add interest to your landscape with accents such as containers of flowers, birdbaths, or garden ornaments. These touches can help to bring your landscape to life and give it a personal touch.