Yard Re-Do #2

Your PLOT MAP is done! If you're reading this next step I am hoping you're ready to move on. You know what you're keeping and at least an idea of what to put down. I know you want to run out and buy things, but Don't Do That Yet! There are a few more prep steps to take.

1. Sun-Know the way your house faces and how sunny or not, your spots are. Certain plants need certain amounts of light--full sun means at least 6 hours. Pay attention to the plant's tag so you know how much sun your plant needs.

2. Soil prep-This includes weeding and fertilization/mulch/compost. Each year you have to put down compost to provide the plants with enough minerals/nitrogen/etc. so they can grow. If your soil is clay-like or sandy you will need to amend it. Local garden centers can help you decide what you need to get best soil possible. You can also visit the Utah State Education website HERE for advice.

3. Water- know how your system works, and if you need to adjust how it sprays or how long. Depending on what you are growing a full Rain-bird head spreading over the yard may not provide enough water for your garden. Consider drip systems for planted pots, and smaller heads for better watering.

4. Plant Types- Consider Water Wise Plants and Perennials in your final design. These are cost effective because they come back each year, and they can often be separated into new transplants at the end or beginning of the growing season, so you can make a new plant next year from the one you purchased this year. Also consider planting herbs. They're are many that are perennial and they are a great addition to the garden.

Annuals vs Perennials: There are lots of opinions here, but basically annuals have bright colors and are great fillers for any space. They only bloom the year your plant them, and can get expensive. Perennials come in many varieties, shapes, sizes and colors, and are a great investment because they come back each year and can often be split off to make new transplants. A mix of both is a great solution!

Find a list of Utah Native Plants Here!
Find a list of Utah Friendly Herbs Here!

Next Step: Visit Nurseries to help make final choices on what to add to your space. PAY ATTENTION TO THE MATURE SIZE ON THE PLANT TAG. They look cute in those 4 inch pots, but they won't stay 4 inches for long. Make Your Final List of what you want to plant and where you want to plant it.