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| Caring
for your Landscape
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Once your new landscape has been completed, become familiar with your site and each plant and their specific needs. Once you
have mastered this it will be easier for you to care for your plants and recognize any problems once they occur.
The first couple of weeks are most crucial in the survival of the plants in your landscape. Here are a few guidelines
to help you promote their survival:
1. Water
is the most essential element. Plants must be kept moist not wet. As a general rule one or two deep waterings per week may be
necessary. However keep in mind that the weather and soil type may effect the frequency and number of waterings per week. Your
goal is to main a constant soil moisture level.
2. After the initial few weeks be aware that insects and disease problems may occur - consult your local nursery
on appropriate control measures.
3. Pruning is another important measure that must be considered. In general, prune deciduous
flowering shrubs immediately after flowering such as Forsythia, Lilac, etc...Prune broadleaf evergreens such as
Rhododendron,Mountain Laurel, etc...immediately after flowering. Deadheading(removing the dead flower heads) these plants
instead of overall pruning, will prevent them from becoming alternate bloomers(blooming every other year). Prune Azaleas by
tip pinching when young. When mature, Azaleas can be cut anywhere along its main stem. Prune needle evergreens such as Juniper
or Taxus at almost anytime, but spring and early summer are best.
4. As autumn approaches, your plants will benefit from a light feeding with a good organic fertilizer such as
Holly-tone, Tree-tone or Plant-tone. Spread the fertilizer evenly around the base of the plant as far out as the branches go,
work it into the soil surface and then give a thorough watering.
5. With the onset of winter, it will be necessary to think of water protection. Be
sure your plants are well watered before winter sets in. Using
antidessicants such as Wilt Pruf, along with burlap barriers are good precautions against damaging winter winds - especially
northern exposure.
6. If deer are a nuisance consider the use of deer repellents such as Bobbex, Repellex, Tree Guard, This 1 Works,
or deer netting.
Following these recommendations will assure you that
your landscape will flourish from year to year. Enjoy your new landscape and the beauty it
adds to your home.
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