If you have
a tiny yard and would like a simple but well-maintained garden, you
only need two things - determination and know-how. Here are
some tips on how to keep your garden by the yard looking spruced up and
glamorous.
1.
Deadheading
Keep your
border free from wilted flowers and dried leaves. Deadheading or
removing dead flower heads will encourage the plants to produce more
blooms for longer. Many perennials such as geraniums and dahlias, and
some annuals benefit from having spent blooms removed
2.
Pinch out tops.
Certain
plants - especially foliage plants like Coleus - respond with a spurt
of growth when their tops are pinched out. Pinching out makes the plant
much bushier and so more blooms are produced. Fuchsias are prone to
becoming leggy unless they are pinched out.
3.
Fertilize lightly.
A minimal
amount of fertilizer will further boost the growth of your vegetation.
If you water your yard frequently, you have to fertilize it more
regularly because of nutrient depletion. A fortnightly application of
liquid fertilizer is sometimes more beneficial than granules as it is
more readily absorbed by the leaves. Container plants will be
considerably healthier with a half-strength solution of liquid
fertilizer applied regularly.
4.
Weed out.
This is one
of the best ways to preserve the beauty of your garden by the
yard. Remember, weeds compete with your plants for both
nutrients and moisture. If the weeds are not close to seeding, leave
them on the bed to rot down for mulch. If you must use a weedicide, try
and get a wick applicator, rather than a spray. This will protect you
plants from spray-drift.
5.
Water them well
One good
tip when it comes to watering your garden by the yard is to give it a
thorough soaking once a week, making sure there is no run-off to cause
erosion. Deep watering will encourage the growth of deeper roots that
will be able to withstand dry spells weatherwise
6.
Say no to chemicals
Chemicals
are dangerous to humans and often kill the natural predators of the
pest in your garden, so avoid them if possible. There are many organic
alternatives that work almost as well.
With these
simple tips, your garden by the yard will soon be the envy of your
neighbors.
