Spring Fling - Gardening Mistakes
Alfresco dining is one of our favorite things to do!
This stunning backyard (my parents’ house!) has layers and pruned shrubs, making it a special retreat in the warmer months.
Colorful pots and flowers can brighten up any boring corner on your driveway or patio.
My parents’ garden is kept neat by these low seat walls. The beautiful setting makes this garden a joy to work in!
Snow days seemed to have disappeared around here and we are now on the edge of spring finally! I can’t wait to get our yard prepared so we can enjoy the season. We love to BBQ and eat outside in warmer weather. And it is so refreshing to come home to an outdoor oasis you can enjoy. Bright flowers, a fresh cut lawn, and trimmed shrubs are the curb appeal aspirations everyone dreams of! There are a few mistakes that are easy to make that can wreck your hard work. Preventing these small errors will have your neighbor thinking the grass is greener on your side of the fence!
Mistake 1. Cutting Your Lawn Too Short
Cutting your lawn too short can temporarily pause root growth. Cut your grass to it’s recommended height. This can vary by type. Here is a link to the Oklahoma State University Extension office. This document shows the proper cutting height for various types of turf that are common in Oklahoma as well as other maintenance tips and tools.
Mistake 2. Foregoing A Master Plan
Sketching a map of your garden or planting beds can change your viewpoint and save you time and money. It will help you visualize how your garden will be laid out, making it easier to change the design now versus digging up plants later in the process. When laying out plants consider the space you have, the sun or shade requirements of the plant, the size of the plant, and the color scheme if planting in a flower bed.
Mistake 3. Spreading Mulch Unevenly
This may sound like common sense, but it is not unusual to see mounds of mulch placed around a planting bed. This looks messy and doesn’t promote good drainage. Spread mulch evenly for a clean look that also protects plant roots and helps hold in moisture.
Mistake 4. Foregoing A Landscape Edge
Borders around beds and gardens are like the frosting on a cake! They help section off your yard and will keep things tidy, mulch in its place, and add a layered look without being overwhelming and messy. There are so many options to landscape borders for every budget. Steel edging, shaped rock, pavers, and bricks are all great options when considering this finishing touch.
Mistake 5. Garden Takeover
Too many flowerbeds, too much plant material, and overgrown vines do nothing to contribute to your curb appeal. Plant material can grow faster than you can blink. Before you know it, the garden you have so lovingly planted can look like a scene from a scary movie. Take time to plan your garden carefully, prune vines back, and trim shrubs to help keep your oasis looking beautiful.
Checklist For Getting Your Yard Ready For Spring:
Clean Gutters
Wash Outside House Walls
Clean Windows And Screens
Clean Outdoor Furniture
Refresh Furniture Cushions
Remove Sticks And Leaves From Flowerbeds
Check Ceramic Pots And Planters For Cracks
Remove Weeds From Flowerbeds
Prune Shrubs And Trees
Check Irrigation System
Fertilize And Apply Pre-Emergent To Lawn (Always Consult A Lawn Care Professional Before Applying Chemicals)