Tending

1. When should I prune plants, and how?

Prune in early spring or after flowering. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches. With shrubs and trees, cut just above outward-facing buds to encourage healthy new growth.

2. How do I improve garden soil quality?

Add organic matter like compost or leaf mold to boost nutrients and drainage. Test soil pH—most plants prefer a range of 6.0 to 7.0. Aerate compacted soil to improve oxygen flow.

3. When should I fertilize my garden?

It’s wise to fertilize in early spring, mid summer, and fall. Use organic compost or balanced fertilizers (10-10-10) to provide nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Tailor feedings and schedules to your plants’ specific needs.

4. What’s the best mulch for garden beds?

Organic mulches like wood chips, straw, or shredded leaves help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Avoid dyed or chemically treated mulches that can leach toxins into your soil.

5. What’s the best way to control weeds in my garden?

Use mulch to block sunlight and suppress weed growth. Pull weeds by hand regularly—and be sure to get the roots. For extra-stubborn weeds, consider natural solutions like vinegar spray, but be cautious—they can harm welcome plants, too. Read How To Control Weeds.

6. How often should I water my garden?

Most gardens need about 1-2 inches of water per week, either from rain or manual watering. Water deeply and less frequently to encourage more robust root growth. Early morning is the best time to water to prevent evaporation and fungal diseases.

7. How can I attract pollinators to my garden?

To attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, plant a variety of native flowers that bloom throughout the seasons. Avoid using pesticides, and provide fresh water in shallow containers with landing spots. Brightly colored blooms—especially blue, purple, yellow, and white—are especially appealing. Add shelter with shrubs, tall grasses, and habitats to give pollinators a safe place to rest and nest.

8. How do I keep pests out of my garden?

Attract beneficials like ladybugs and praying mantises for integrated pest management. Implement companion planting—marigolds, basil, and garlic are among the plants that naturally deter pests. For larger pests like rabbits, install fencing or netting around vulnerable plants.

9. How do I keep my lawn green and healthy?

Consider re-wilding swaths of lawn and mowing less. If and when you mow, mow to the right height—typically ~3” to preserve environmental benefits. Water deeply but infrequently, and aerate compacted soil annually. Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer in spring and fall.

10. How do I prepare my garden for winter?

Remove dead plants, apply mulch to protect roots, and prune dormant perennials. Plant cover crops like clover or rye grass to prevent soil erosion and improve nutrients for next season.