Blackwelder column: Landscape makeover

At this time of year, many landscapes are not at their best. Bad weather seems to always compound the situation. Most plants look rather drab and in many situations, some landscapes could use a partial, or in some instances, a total makeover.

Now is a good time to research and plan your landscape makeover. Preparation and proper knowledge are essential in becoming a successful gardener. Below are a few mistakes homeowners make that can be avoided with proper planning.

- How big will this plant get?

Most people buy plants without knowledge of how fast they grow or the mature size. Dwarf shrubs such as burfordi holly actually stretch 8 feet tall. Many think that dwarf means it will not get much larger than the size in the container. Consult with knowledgeable growers or sales persons to learn as much about the plant as you can before planting.

- Over-planting.

Many tend to over-plant, impatient for the shrubs to mature. Placing plants close together is appealing, but as shrubs become established, they become overcrowded and unattractive. Over-crowded shrubs are often removed after a few years.

I spoke to a fast food chain manager about his crowded landscape. Ironically, the company budgets for total landscape renovation every three to four years.

- Improper or no pruning.

I probably get more questions on pruning than any other subject. Most inquiries are concerning trees that are too big. Horning back trees or shrubs create unnatural forms, weakening plants predisposing them to insect and disease problems. Take time to learn growth habits before pruning.

- Improper planting techniques.

It doesn't matter how much time or money you spend preparing the soil if you don't plant the shrub correctly. Sick or diseased shrubs are often a result of improper planting, usually too deep. In tight clay, its better to set shrubs a little high in a plant bed than too deeply.

- Impatience.

Planning is a very important part of good landscape design. Landscape architects spend hours developing the perfect landscape. Take time to learn about growth and maintenance of new shrubs. Great landscapes often take years to develop. Your landscape is an open book to your personality. Some refer to landscape as a person's outdoor living room.

Darrell Blackwelder is an agricultural agent in charge of horticulture with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in Rowan County. Call 704-216-8970.

http://www.rowanmastergardener.com

http://rowan.ces.ncsu.edu

www.rowanextension.com