Summer in the south means a lot of things, but to landscapers and homeowners, it can equate to some tough summer weeds. Treating these summer invaders may seem like a never-ending task, but it is key in keeping your own yard and garden from becoming smothered and choked. Be prepared for the tough summer weeds that threaten your plants and greenspaces: Southeastern weeds are common. Weeds can be an issue in the southeastern states and it is important to know…
Wondering which fertilizer will make your grass grow greener, organic or synthetic? Before you buy fertilizer for your lawn and greenspaces, consider some basic tips. Got questions about fertilizer? Here is what you need to know: What is fertilizer comprised of? The three key ingredients in fertilizer are nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, each with a distinct purpose. Nitrogen makes your lawn lush and green, while potassium helps make your grass durable and resilient during stressful conditions. Phosphorus fosters…
Reduce the impacts of run-off and help your foliage thrive with smart irrigation strategies; watering plants, lawns, and gardens comprises around 30% of all water consumed in a typical household. It is further estimated that Americans use seven-billion gallons of water daily to water their greenspaces. Proper irrigation practices help prevent waste while fostering healthy, hardy plants. Get smart about irrigation to conserve water and help your lawn thrive: Adjust the Blade Adjusting your mower blade can also help…
A lot of times, homeowners worry about the condition of their property, but overlook yard safety, which could be a recipe for disaster. This season pay attention to some simple tips that help keep everyone at your home much safer, and that can prevent a catastrophe later-on. Save yourself hassle and heartache with these yard safety tips: Stretch first. Yard work can be rigorous. Make sure that you stretch your back and muscles before engaging in yard work to prevent injury….
If you live on the coast, make sure that you are buying salt tolerant plants for your landscape designs. Some flora and foliage simply can’t withstand the salt air and spray of the southeastern shoreline, and that could be disastrous for your landscape. Some prudent options for South Carolina include: Conifers, like evergreen shrubs. Juniper, such as cedar. Flowering oleander. Grassy sea oats. Blooming lantana. Some types of zinnia flowers. For a dramatic and colorful green-space, consider Hydrangeas, a beautiful blooming shrub…
Want to add some long-lasting color to your South Carolina garden this season? Consider planting perennials, specifically, cannas; cannas are gorgeous and exotic blooming plants that are hardy and well-suited to the climate of the southeastern United States. Talk to a landscape or garden expert about integrating these tropical beauties around your yard and property. Consider Cannas for your summertime color: Skip the Seed Unless you are a landscape expert, it makes the most sense to start with tubers…
There are some age-old theories about how to change the color of your Hydrangea blooms that have been used by gardeners for centuries. These practices include adding things like metal or coffee grounds to the soil to alter the hue when hydrangeas bloom. The truth is, the coloring of your distinct plants comes from the pH level of the soil. Moreover, the shade depends on how much aluminum it is soaking up from the earth. Some tips to change the…
When you think of your southeastern United States garden and landscape, consider the fragrant beauty of gardenias. Gardenias are well-suited to the Carolinian climate as they are drought-resistant and require little care to thrive in this hardiness zone. Whether you are looking for an extensive hedge or a simple shrub, gardenias can be found widely in cultivars that will fit the space perfectly. Keep an eye out for these Gardenias at your favorite nursery or greenhouse: Extra-large Gardenias. ‘First…
The southern United States is the perfect grow-zone for azaleas; these beautiful flowering plants are a member of the rhododendron family, a shallow-rooted plant that provides spring and summer flowers and year-round foliage in mild climates. How and when should you prune azaleas? Consider the following advice: Prune prior to the blooming season. When pruning your azalea to encourage growth, the best time to prune is before spring growth starts; this ensures that you will still see flowers during…
Enjoy a taste of summer well into the fall by planting citrus trees now; many delicious citrus fruits are native to Charleston and thrive in the southeastern US climate. When you visit your local garden center, ask the planting professionals about some options that you have when it comes to citrus. Some hardy and widely available citrus for your landscaping include: Red Navel Oranges. Red Naval Orange are an excellent choice for the Carolinas with a peak…