Tree, Shrub, Perennial & Bed Maintenance.
You’ve invested in quality plantings, and with proper care, you can ensure your trees, shrubs, perennials, and garden beds thrive naturally. Here’s how to maintain a healthy, sustainable landscape:
Plant health always starts with soil health. By following these sustainable practices, you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy landscape while protecting the environment. If you need assistance, Preferred Landscapes, Inc. offers eco-friendly Horticultural Maintenance Services to help keep your landscape flourishing naturally.
Soil Health.
Start with healthy soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost or aged manure. Compost enhances soil structure, improves water retention, and increases nutrient availability, providing a strong foundation for your plants.
Watering.
Proper watering is crucial for the health of your trees, shrubs, and perennials. It’s important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can drown the roots, while under-watering can cause plants to wilt. Check for adequate moisture by inserting your finger about three inches into the soil. Add water slowly and deeply to allow the soil to absorb moisture without runoff.
Nutrients.
To ensure your plants receive the nutrients they need, start with a soil test from your local university extension. This will help you understand your soil’s nutrient needs and pH levels. Based on the test results, apply organic fertilizers such as compost, worm castings, or natural amendments like bone meal. The best time to apply organic fertilizers is in early spring and late fall when plants can absorb nutrients effectively. Be cautious not to add fertilizer to sensitive trees such as pear trees, which excessive nutrients may harm. Organic fertilizers release nutrients slowly, benefiting your plants and the environment over time.
Mulching.
Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch around trees, shrubs, and in garden beds. It’s essential to keep mulch away from the base of trees and shrubs, avoiding the common mistake of mounding mulch around the base, which can lead to rot and pest issues. Mulching with organic materials helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and enrich the soil as it decomposes.
Dividing Perennials.
Regular pruning of trees and shrubs, along with dividing perennials every few years, keeps your landscape healthy and vibrant. Prune flowering shrubs after they bloom and thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration. Removing spent flowers encourages continuous blooming and prevents plants from using energy to produce seeds.
Weed Control
Maintain weed control by applying a 3-inch layer of organic mulch. This will effectively suppress weed growth while also enhancing soil quality. Hand-pulling weeds regularly is a natural and effective method to keep your landscape looking its best. If necessary, use organic pre-emergent products made from natural ingredients like corn gluten.
