Care Tips
This page provides general guidelines for taking care of
your new landscape. If you have specific questions or care
concerns please contact us and we would be happy to help answer
those questions.
WATERING YOUR NEW LANDSCAPE
- LAWNS: Seeded and sodded lawns need large
amounts of water. In general, new lawns must be watered at least
three inches per week. It is important to water by inches rather
than time. The best way to do this is to water a half of an inch
each day to prevent newly germinated seeds or new sod roots from
dying. You can place a pan under your sprinkler to determine the
time for a half of an inch.
- TREES: Since the root ball is larger and
is generally buried deeply in the ground, they need less frequent
watering than sod or shrubs. A good deep soaking once every 6-7
days is usually sufficient. A good deep soaking means 15 minutes
per tree, at a steady stream.
- SHRUBS: Shrubs need a deep soaking
approximately every 3-4 days. Pay attention to the leaves; if they
appear wilted and the ground is dry please water the plant. Usually
5 minutes per shrub at a steady stream.
- ANNUALS: These are plants that are not
hardy in our planting zone year around. These require special care
depending on the weather and the soil temperature. Water thoroughly
for the first 2 weeks after planting. Soil should feel moist to the
touch at least 2" down. Let soil dry out between watering. Tip:
watch for leaf color. Yellow and limp leaves signal
overwatering.
- PERENNIALS & GROUNDCOVERS: These
plants will require watering every two to three days because of
their shallow root system. They will need less watering once they
are established.
- PLANTS IN BERMS: These plants will
require more frequent watering. Water will drain faster due to the
slope.
- DRIP HOSES & IRRIGATION
SYSTEMS: Please do not depend solely on these methods
of watering as in most cases they may not be totally sufficient. If
using, it is best to monitor everyday to view any inconsistencies
in watering, which may need correction.
PRUNING YOUR NEW LANDSCAPE
- DECIDUOUS SHRUBS & TREES: These
plants will require trimming at different times during the year
depending on their flowering times. It is important that the timing
for trimming be after the flowering cycle of the plant. For
example:spring flowering plants should be pruned in mid summer and
summer flowering plants should be trimmed in the fall.
- EVERGREENS: As a result of their habit,
evergreens will require trimming once per year, generally in mid
June/July. The trimming should be completed while the new lime
green growth is apparent and still supple.
- ANNUALS / PERENNIALS: Some of these
plants need to be cut back or deadheaded, as they finish blooming,
to keep them from setting seed. This maintains the health of the
plant and in many cases, encourages another flush of blooms.
Perennials are usually cut back in the fall. Certain perennials,
like Russian Sage or ornamental grasses, can add interest to the
winter landscape and can be cut back in the spring.
- GENERAL PRUNING TIPS: Occasionally
branches may be damaged or broken during transport and planting.
Some damage may not be easily seen until later. In this case it
will be necessary for you to prune the twig or branch. Use a sharp
pair of pruners or a saw and cut as close to the trunk or main
branch as possible. Do not leave dead branches on the plant, as
they are possible entry points for insects and diseases.