Do you have a boring yard? With just a few simple tricks and tips let me help you create the most beautiful yard and garden.
To start, do you know what plants are best for our Buffalo climate? Clematis jackmannii, goatsbeard, and a meadow rue are plants that withstand harsh weather and many feet of snow, some standard requirements for being planted in a city famous for long winters.
If you have a small yard and your goal is to try and make it bigger use horizontal layers of different heights to create the illusion of depth. For example, use low shrubs in front of a high fence and tall shrubs right in front of your home.
Did you know that it’s better to give your lawn and plants a good soaking less frequently than several sprinklings more often? The roots underneath the plant are the only part of the plant that can really absorb water. Small waterings tend to get quickly absorbed by the topsoil or even the matting that covers it and the roots remain dry and thirsty. In order for them to really drink, the water needs to penetrate the roots, about four to six inches down for most plants.
Do you really want to transform your garden into an oasis? Add an arbor. The addition of an arbor is a beautiful place to showcase vines and climbing flowers. Use unexpected planters for a cute quirky addition. Old rain boots are always fun to plant flowers in. Adding a winding garden path to your garden is also a great idea. Use gravel to pave a pathway for visitors to view your flowerbeds. Make sure to avoid rigid lines, instead let the path mimic the free-flowing nature feel.
Plant full-petaled, luxurious flowers. Roses, bellflowers, and peonies are a perfect addition. It will kick up your curb appeal tenfold. Choose a material like wire or wood as a base for your flowers and let them bloom!
Still can’t keep your plants alive? Have your soil tested to see if it is sufficient in magnesium and iron. These nutrients produce the grass’s green rich color. If your lawn is sufficient in those nutrients and it’s still not looking how you want it too it will probably have something to do with how often your trimming your lawn. Grass should not be cut shorter than two inches.
Keep in mind that creativity when it comes to your yard and garden is crucial. Don’t be afraid to take chances and have it become a part of you. Create a personal workbook and store notes, ground plants, and inspiration in it. At the end of each season not your plants, how well they did, and problems that were faced along the way. By doing this you will create an extremely rich resource.
Tori Terrazzino
