The Encyclopedia Of Garden Flowers

THE COLORFUL GARDEN

Caring For Your Garden

The amount of care a garden requires over time is directly related to its design. Naturally, the choice of plants is important, but it is the planning and preparation that goes into the garden space that is the most important factor in creating a beautiful and satisfying garden that requires minimum maintenance.

Soil Preparation

Of all the planning factors to consider, the most overlooked, yet crucial, is soil preparation. Before you can decide what you are going to plant in your garden it is essential to evaluate your soil. Establish your soil type (according to its clay, silt and sand content), its pH (acidity or alkalinity) and available nutrients, so you can work out which soil amendments to add. Home soil-testing kits are available at garden centers.

Most perennials and shrubs appreciate a well- drained, nutrient-rich, yet moisture-retentive soil. Depending on the composition and structure of the native soil, amendments in the form of composted organic matter (leaf mold, Canadian sphagnum peat moss, mushroom compost, and compost comprised of kitchen waste, bark, or manure) can be added to a depth of approximately 2 ft (0.6 m) to improve the soil structure. If the soil is comprised of heavy clay or if it drains poorly, the addition of organic matter will increase the soil's drainage and aeration. If it is sandy, gravelly, or nutrient-poor, it will improve the soil's ability to retain water. In certain cases, adequate quantities of sand, grit, or similar materials can improve drainage. This is important for plants with an aversion to poorly draining soil such as many alpine and Mediterranean plants.

Watering

The amount of watering needed in a garden depends on many factors, not least the amount of rainfall in an area, but also whether the plants are appropriate to the climate and site, and whether the soil has been well prepared. Careful planning can greatly minimize the frequency of watering tasks in a garden. Plants that require extra water can be grouped together, preferably in an area that is close to a hose or watering system. Plants that can tolerate less water can be planted in areas that are less accessible to water. Moisture-loving plants can be used in low-lying or poorly drained areas. Simple tips such as watering in the morning and early evening to reduce evaporation will help you collaborate with nature rather than fight it, thus saving much time and energy.

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