A thoughtfully designed landscape can be a beautiful addition to any home or commercial space. It’s no wonder that landscaping plays a significant role in the outdoor space improvement industry. However, landscaping can also be a tricky and tedious process. Whether you're an amateur or professional in the field of lawn care and landscape design, there are certain mistakes that should be avoided in order to keep your outdoor project from turning into a disaster.
So, which blunders should you steer clear of to help to ensure that your outdoor project is a success?
Putting plants in the wrong spots
Plant placement is a key component of landscaping. You can't just put any plants anywhere just because you think they may look nice in a certain spot. While aesthetics do play an important role in plant placement, there are other vital factors that also need to be considered.
For example, plants that are more shade-tolerant should be planted in areas that don’t get as much sun. Alternatively, plants that require abundant sunlight should not be placed under trees or too close to the house or other building. Make sure you find out how much water and sunlight each type of plant in your garden requires. Before you put anything in the ground or place any pots, first find out where each plant is most likely to grow and thrive. Will plants be healthier in mulch or dirt beds? Consider the unique needs of all of your plants so they can reach their full potential and serve their purpose for your landscaping project.
Poorly designed landscaping plans
Having a thoroughly crafted plan is crucial to any landscaping project’s success. You should never embark on any project without a plan, and your landscape design is no exception. Creating a healthy and sustainable landscape does not happen overnight. Be sure to outline a detailed plan ahead of time that includes plants and trees native to your region. Consider which elements may work well together, including your particular plants, climate, available space, and functionality.
Whether you're a professional landscaper or just starting in the landscaping industry, you can reap the promising benefits of creating a thorough plan.
Using incorrect tools
Disregarding the importance of using proper landscaping equipment can be detrimental to any job you're doing. If you want your garden to have healthy-looking shrubs or bushes, you’ll need quality pruning shears. If you want your landscape to have well-defined boundaries between properties, make sure you invest in quality hedge trimmers. You’ll also need wheelbarrows or other heavy lifting equipment for working with large rocks and boulders. Make sure you include shovels for digging and planting holes in dirt beds or containers and several other key items. It’s essential that you ensure all of your tools and equipment are up to par before starting any new landscaping endeavor.
Cutting the grass too short
If you cut your grass too short, it can make your lawn susceptible to weeds and damage. It can also encourage pests such as rodents and insects. When grass is too short, an excessive amount of the leaf surface is removed, which can hinder its ability to perform the vital process of photosynthesis. It can also produce weak and unhealthy roots.
Bad pruning practices
Correct pruning is an essential aspect of landscaping maintenance. Doing so allows for the healthy and strong growth of new plants. If you prune incorrectly can give a lawn an unhealthy look and may also damage the plants. So what is the correct way to prune?
Most of the time, it’s best not to prune more than 10-15% of each plant at one time. Exceeding this amount may inhibit healthy growth. Also, it is best to do your pruning during the winter months. You can prune during spring and summer, but be sure to do so sparingly.
Overwatering
Different types of plants have varying needs when it comes to watering. The good news is that Mother Nature can handle most of the work. One of the most common mistakes people make is overwatering plants and landscapes, which can lead to plant death. Don’t underestimate the hardiness of your plants and trees. They usually need only a little or no water. Unless they're exhibiting signs of dehydration, you shouldn't be alarmed. The only plants that require constant watering are annuals and tropical plants.
Another thing to take into consideration is your soil. Water retention shouldn't be an issue if it's mostly clay.
Whether you're a landscaping beginner or a seasoned professional, it’s best to avoid these common landscaping mistakes to see the long-term success of your landscaping projects.
If you need quality equipment or replacement parts for your commercial landscaping needs, feel free to contact Mow More.