By Katie Martin – Smith County Extension Agent
Does springtime have you itching to grab some new plants and mulch to revamp your landscape? If landscaping is on the spring-cleaning to-do list, we have a few important steps you might want to consider to make the most out of your landscape. From determining essential needs to assessing your current landscape and brainstorming ideas, you might want to consider picking up a pencil and creating a landscape plan before you reach for the shovel.
First, it’s important to determine your specific landscaping needs and goals. Consider factors such as the purpose of the space, your budget, maintenance preferences, and any unique requirements. After identifying some wants and needs, make sure to take a look at what you currently have in your landscape by creating a base map. Include a north arrow, any permanent or semi-permanent structures, utilities like septic systems or irrigation systems, boundary lines, and even topography. This map will assist you in understanding the drainage, sunlight, and space for additional plantings, as you work towards your landscaping goals.
Now that you have a map of your current landscaping, you can add in your landscaping vision. Would you like to plant a pollinator garden? Maybe you have a goal to add perennials or raised beds for gardening? Putting the ideas on paper will allow you to thoughtfully consider your options and gives you the opportunity to shift your landscape as your needs, goals, or surroundings shift.
A few more things to consider, make sure to account for your soil conditions. We can assist with that with a simple soil test that will tell you more about pH and nutrients in the soil. Don’t forget to take into consideration views. Whether it is from your kitchen window, front porch, or neighbor’s yard, take into account all angles. Consider creating an inventory of current landscape plants and make plans to remove unhealthy plants or invasive species to replace them with more desirable alternatives.
Now that you have put pen to paper and have a landscaping plan for your property in place, you can prioritize what is needed to achieve your desired vision. Consider starting with small, easier steps first to get the ball rolling! If you are in need of plant suggestions for the landscape, we have a great list of annuals and perennials available for you at our office.
For more information about landscaping, visit the UT Hort website at uthort.tennessee.edu/ or contact the UT Extension office at 615-735-2900.
