Spring is typically the ideal season to prepare and plant flower beds and to start hardscaping projects. Summer, often referred to as the peak construction season, is when most large landscaping and hardscaping projects are completed. Fall is well-suited for planting trees and shrubs, as the cooler temperatures support their growth. Hardscaping work also continues in the fall until the ground freezes or snow begins to fall.

A good example of this timeline is a past project that started in late summer. During that time, we completed the hardscaping tasks, including building a patio, sitting walls, and a fireplace, as well as planting trees and shrubs. The following spring, we added perennial and annual plants, as they flourish in the favorable spring conditions.

To ensure your project is completed within your desired timeframe, reach out to landscaping companies during the winter months. This early planning secures a spot on the schedule when the season begins. By late summer, many crews may already be fully booked through the end of the year.

Maintain a healthy garden with these simple DIY tips:

- Keep it tidy: Regularly clean up plant debris, remove dying stems or branches, and weed the area. Add the debris to your compost pile to recycle nutrients.

- Fertilize wisely: Use just enough fertilizer to keep plants healthy. Over-fertilizing can lead to weak growth, which is more prone to disease.

- Plant at the right time: Wait until the soil has warmed up to avoid stressing plants. Early planting can make them vulnerable to soil-borne diseases.

- Apply mulch: Mulch helps suppress weeds and retains moisture in the soil, creating a better growing environment.

- Inspect and act promptly: Check your plants for signs of disease. Remove infected leaves or stems as soon as you spot them to prevent the disease from spreading and to help your plants continue to thrive.

Watering plants effectively is simple but essential. Start by thoroughly watering immediately after planting, allowing the water to soak deeply into the soil, then water again. During the first few weeks, aim for frequent, deep watering—a good soak every other day works well.

Use a slow stream of water at the base of each plant, letting it create a small pool before moving on to the next plant. This method encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil, building a stronger, more resilient root system. Avoid shallow watering, as it keeps roots near the soil surface, leading to weaker plants that require more frequent watering and are more vulnerable to winter damage.

After the first week, reduce watering to two or three times per week, adjusting based on weather conditions in your area. For all newly planted trees, shrubs, and perennials, give them a thorough watering in late fall just before the ground freezes to help them endure the winter months.

Choosing between drip irrigation and a sprinkler system depends on your specific needs:Drip irrigation is excellent for targeted watering of small areas or individual plants, especially in garden beds or around your home. It delivers water slowly, minimizing waste from evaporation or runoff, and won’t disturb mulch.Sprinkler systems are better suited for covering large areas, such as lawns, quickly and efficiently. They can be programmed to run at specific times, offering a convenient “set it and forget it” option.Both systems have advantages, so consider the type of plants or areas you’re watering, as well as your goals for efficiency and convenience, to decide which is the best fit for your landscape.

Using mulch offers numerous benefits, such as:Moisture retention: Mulch helps the soil hold water, reducing the need for frequent watering.Improved soil health: As mulch breaks down over time, it enriches the soil with nutrients and organic matter.Weed suppression: By blocking sunlight, mulch prevents weeds from sprouting and spreading.Insect deterrence: Certain types of mulch can repel pests, offering a natural form of protection for your plants.Erosion control: Mulch stabilizes the soil, reducing erosion caused by wind and water.Incorporating mulch into your garden not only enhances its appearance but also promotes a healthier, more sustainable landscape.