Plant Care Guidance
Congratulations on the installation of your new garden! It’s an excellent mix of plants you will enjoy for years to come. Below are general care directions for your newly installed plants. Please note that different plants have unique needs, and while these general care instructions should cover most scenarios, it may be beneficial to research each plant individually for more specific guidance, or when in doubt, just ask us!
1. Watering
a. Watering is critical, especially for newly planted gardens. For the first week or so after planting, water the garden daily. After the first week, you can typically reduce watering to about twice a week, unless the weather is particularly hot
i. Watering tip: It is better to water deeply and less frequently rather than shallow and more often. This encourages the plant’s roots to grow deeper into the soil, seeking moisture, and thus helping to establish a strong, healthy plant. Water at the base of the plant to get the whole root system. Do not water directly on the leaves or foliage, as it does not allow the plant to really drink the water being given.
2. Mulching
a. Mulch your garden beds to conserve moisture, reduce weed growth, and maintain soil temperature. Apply a layer of 2-3 inches of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or compost. Keep mulch a few inches away from the bases of the plants to allow the plants to breathe.
3. Fertilizing
a. A slow-release, balanced fertilizer applied in the early spring should be sufficient for your plants. These applications provide well balanced meals that last for months. Your plants have been installed with high quality soil amendments and Holly-tone and Plant-tone fertilizer to match their respective plants. They are off to an excellent start!
4. Monitoring and Maintenance
a. Keep an eye on your plants for signs of stress and disease. Yellow leaves, wilted or unusual spots or pests are usually signs something may be off. Try to identify and address problems as soon as you can. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call us!
5. Pruning
a. Evergreens and Flowering Evergreens (e.g., Cypress, Rhododendrons, American Holly, and Andromeda) – i.These do not need pruning. If a plant has been installed in a windy area, a leaf protectant like Wilt Proof can be sprayed in the fall to prevent leaf wilt throughout the winter.
b. Deciduous Shrubs (e.g., Rose, Red Twig Dogwood, Butterfly Bush, Hydrangea, Lilac) – Prune in late winter or early spring.
c. Perennials (e.g., Iris, Coneflower, Dianthus, Fox Glove, Yarrow, Sedum, Monarda) – Deadhead flowers, as this will encourage some plants to re-bloom. Prune late fall or early spring, clipping them to 2-3″ above the ground.
d. Grasses – Grasping general easy to care for Cut back the foliage in the fall.
Lastly, don’t forget to enjoy your garden. It is there for your pleasure and peace.
Happy gardening!
Thank you for choosing Larson’s Garden Center for your landscaping needs.
It was a pleasure to make your dream a reality!
Larson’s Garden Center and Landscaping
26 Covey Road • Burlington, CT 06013 • 860-404-5747 • LarsonsGardenCenter.com
Dated: 2024
