Finding a plant you love is usually the easy part. Finding the right place for it in your landscape can take a little more thought.
One of the simplest ways to set a plant up for success is to choose something that naturally fits the conditions of your yard. Sunlight, drainage, available space and even how you plan to use the area can all influence how well a plant performs over time. Taking a few of these factors into consideration before planting can save you time and maintenance down the road.
Start With Sunlight
The amount of sunlight an area receives is one of the most important things to consider when choosing a plant. While a spot may look shady in the morning, it could receive several hours of direct afternoon sun, so it helps to observe the area throughout the day before deciding what to plant.
Plant tags will typically indicate whether a plant prefers full sun, partial sun or shade. Matching those recommendations to the conditions in your yard gives your plants a much better opportunity to thrive.
Pay Attention to Water and Drainage
North Florida weather can bring plenty of rain, especially during the warmer months, but not every area of your yard handles that water in the same way. Some spots may drain quickly, while others stay wet long after a storm has passed.
Before planting, pay attention to how water moves through the area. Choosing a plant that is suited to the existing drainage conditions is often easier than constantly trying to compensate for a location that is too wet or too dry.
Plan for the Plant's Mature Size
It can be difficult to picture a small plant at the garden center becoming a large shrub or tree, but considering its mature size is an important part of deciding where it belongs.
Check the expected height and width before planting near your home, driveway, walkway, fence or other plants. Allowing enough space from the beginning can help prevent overcrowding and reduce the amount of pruning and maintenance needed later.
Think About What You Want From the Space
Before choosing a plant, consider what you want it to accomplish in your landscape. You may be looking to create privacy, add shade, bring more color to a garden bed or attract pollinators. In other areas, you may simply need something that fills an empty space without requiring much maintenance.
Starting with a purpose can make it much easier to narrow down your options and create a landscape that works well as a whole.
Choose What Works for You
A beautiful landscape should also fit your lifestyle. Some homeowners enjoy spending their weekends pruning, planting and working in the yard, while others would rather have a landscape that requires less regular attention.
Neither approach is better than the other. Being realistic about the amount of maintenance you want to take on will help you choose plants that you can enjoy for years to come.
Ultimately, successful landscaping isn't about choosing the biggest, brightest or trendiest plant at the garden center. It's about finding something that fits the conditions of your yard and works for the way you want to use your outdoor space.
If you're unsure where to start, bring photos, measurements or information about your space when you visit Liberty Landscape Supply. Our team can help you explore options that make sense for your landscape and your goals.
To learn more, visit www.libertylandscapesupply.com
Media Contact:
Stephanie Frakes
Account Manager
Stephanie@wandermediacompany.com
