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Here we are at the end of spring, looking toward summer. I was sitting on my back deck last night looking at my empty window boxes. Maybe you're in the same situation too. Don't feel bad, it's been a busy spring and we still have plenty of time. Our selection of annuals is great and I am excited about doing my planting at the end of the week. Now is also a great time for planting vegetables. The temperatures are just right and with rain the last 10 days, the soil is ready. All you need to do is go for it! I know I will be. See you at the garden center! -- Tom Estabrook, Vice President |
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The Ten DO's and DON'Ts of Landscaping
Even small landscaping projects can seem daunting. Which plants should I choose? How do I want my beds laid out? What should I keep and
what should I toss?Like any project, dividing it up into smaller parts will make your task easier. We've compiled the following ten DO's and DON'Ts of landscaping to help you tackle "that spot" in your yard.
- DON'T start without a plan. Selecting plants that "look pretty" can lead to a haphazard accumulation of plants.
- DO think long term. Keep in mind that plants, especially trees, grow. Always consider the mature size of a plant (10 years at the minimum) before planting.
- DON'T be afraid to pull out overgrown shrubs and trees. Overgrown plants crowd a house, obscure views from windows, and invite home maintenance problems like wood rot and insects.
- DO decide where to spend your money. Buying the smaller size of fast growing plants let's you spend more on larger, slower growing plants.
- DON'T always think straight. Although a straight line is the quickest way from point A to point B, they do not leave much to the imagination. Curved walks and beds slow down the eye and add interest.
- DO think curb appeal. With the increased popularity of outdoor rooms, the backyard is getting a lot of attention lately - but it's the front yard everyone sees. Money spent on curb appeal is a good investment.
- DON'T create a monster. A spectacular landscape is a beauty to behold, but beware, that dream garden can turn nightmarish. Definitely assess how much time you are willing to put into maintenance prior to planting.
- DO plan for low maintenance. Like most of us, time is limited, so create a landscape that meets your time requirements.
- DON'T think in ones. A single plant can easily get lost in the garden. Think in multiples – preferably odd numbers. Creating swaths of color increases visual impact and reduces maintenance.
- DO stay ahead of the weeds. Letting weeds go to seed spells trouble in any garden. Take a little time each week to pull weeds that have popped up – it will pay off in the long term.
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Sod Installation Guide
Are you looking for an immediate upgrade to your lawn? Cultivated sod allows you to enjoy a lawn of instant beauty and maturity without the
usual time-consuming hassles of seeding. You'll find sod at all three of our locations in Yarmouth, Scarborough and Kennebunk.To help you get started with the process, here are a few tips:
Step 1 - Measuring & Ordering
With a tape, measure the area of your planned lawn. Include these measurements on a sketch of the lawn area, with the length, width and any unusual features. We will be happy to assist you in determining the amount of turf grass sod you will need from your sketch.
Schedule your order for delivery of turf after prepatory work is completed and you are ready to install. Prompt installation on the day of delivery is crucial to a strong beginning for your lawn.
Step 2 - Soil Preparation
For best results, rototill or spade the area to a depth of 4-6". Remember to help eliminate drainage problems by having the soil slope away from foundations.
Rake in fertilizer, lime, peat, or compost as needed to a depth of 3-4", then rake and smooth the soil, remembering to remove any rocks, roots, or large clods. Roll the area lightly with a lawn roller 1/3 full of water. This will firm the soil surface and reveal low areas that need more soil.
Water the prepared area to settle the soil and provide a moist base for your turf. Moistening to a depth of 6" is recommended for most soils.
Step 3 - Turf Installation
Install your lawn immediately upon delivery by beginning to place the sod along the longest straight line, such as a driveway or sidewalk. Butt and push the edges and ends against each other tightly without stretching and avoiding gaps or overlaps. Stagger the joints in each row in a brick-like fashion, using a large sharp knife to trim the corners. Avoid leaving small strips at the outer edges as they will not retain moisture. On slopes, place the turf pieces across the slope.
Step 4 - Watering
Give your new lawn at least 1" of water within 30 minutes of installation. Water daily, or more often, keeping the turf moist until it is firmly rooted (in about 2 weeks). Less frequent and deeper watering should begin after this period. Weather conditions will dictate the amount and frequency of watering, but be certain that your new lawn has enough moisture to survive hot, dry, or windy periods.
Your new sod lawn increases your property value significantly. With proper care, it will remain a great asset, providing beauty, a clean playing surface, and an improved environment for years and years!
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