Planning a New Landscape Garden

As Old Man Winter loosens his grip and the snow begins to melt away, we draw our attention to the landscapes that enhance our homes and lives, and increase our property values. If you are creating a new garden or just renovating an existing garden, understand that planning is a crucial part of the process.

 The first step is deciding the function of the garden. What do you want to accomplish? Is it to attract wildlife, provide screening, or perhaps to create a quiet place to sit and contemplate?

 Next, decide where to locate it. Perform a site analysis. What is the soil in the area like? Is it dry, wet, sandy, loamy? Have a comprehensive soil test done to determine if the soil needs to be amended. What sunlight will it receive as the seasons change? Will the garden be protected from winter winds or shaded from the hot summer sun?

 Once you have determined the site conditions you can begin to choose plants that will be appropriate for the soil type and climate. The Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA) advocates the “Right Plant in the Right Place”. By placing the right plants in the optimum conditions, it will reduce the amount of maintenance, watering, fertilization, and insect and disease damage. Be sure to utilize native trees, shrubs, perennials, and grasses suited for the climate.

 By following some of these simple steps you can create a garden that will thrive and be aesthetically pleasing for years to come.

Chris Baliko is Co-Owner of Growing Solutions, LLC and is accredited by the Northeast Organic Farming Association and a CT licensed arborist. For more information about Growing Solutions’ organic landscape design and lawn care services call 866.476.9765 or visit GrowSo.com.