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Whether you're new to gardening or you're an experienced landscaper, growing your own flowers and plants can be a rewarding experience. You feel accomplished and proud, and it will make your yard look absolutely wonderful, especially with a little planning.
However, it's easy to damage your garden if you're not careful. We can't anticipate everything that may go wrong during the growing season, but you can definitely set your plants up for success with a little extra protection.
Here are 6 ways to keep your garden fresh and safe.
1. Gutter Guards
We all know that storms and rain can damage plants and landscapes, but if your garden sits near your house, you may never have considered the runoff from the roof as a potential threat. Even if your garden seems to be covered by an awning, the runoff from your roof could impact with more force than just rain and cause more damage.
Gutter guards are a great way to combat this issue. The best gutter guards protect your gutters and redirect debris and water away from your garden to be dropped somewhere much less likely to cause damage. Many roofing companies can install them for you, too!
2. Bring in “Good” Bugs
Insects are a common issue in home gardens. Aphids, certain types of worms, and some beetles are all small pests that can cause a lot of damage to plants. Rather than trying to figure out which chemical will be least harmful to your plants, try incorporating some good bugs instead!
Insects such as ladybugs, praying mantises, and dragonflies are all highly beneficial to many types of plants. They also prey on the bad bugs!
3. Put Up Fences
Bigger creatures like rabbits and deer can also cause a lot of damage. If you live in an area where these are common, you can look into less “tasty” plants. However, even if they aren't common in your region, your garden may attract them!
The best way to prevent these animals from getting to your seedlings is with fences. Do a little research to find out what type of fencing will work best in your residence and what will fend off the animals.
4. Be Careful with Watering
People often water their plants incorrectly. Watering the foliage of the garden can actually be as damaging as overwatering them or not watering them at all. Try to water so that the H20 goes directly to the soil underneath for the best contact with the roots.
If you have to water them from above, try to do it earlier in the day so the foliage has a chance to dry.
5. Grab Some Covers for the Cold
Like us, and all living things, plants will freeze and die from too cold of a temperature. Luckily, they make specific types of covers and products to help retain the heat that plants naturally radiate.
Cloches and row covers are great options. If you don't want to buy covers, you can make some insulation using old newspapers, sheets, or similar items.
6. Guard the Roots
The roots are the area that needs the most protection. Covering them in the cold is imperative. When a storm is coming, consider adding mulch to your garden. Just be sure to keep the mulch at least 3 inches away from the foliage.
Conclusion
There are many ways to keep your garden safe and healthy. Know the area you live in, and prepare for any creatures or weather that could head your way with these six tips!
