We’ve all watched those home and garden shows where a team of designers come in over the course of a weekend and totally revamp a house or yard in a matter of days. However, this rapid make over approach on these shows probably are better suited for science-fiction channels than home improvement channels. First of all if you have more than one designer you’re asking for trouble and don’t be surprised if there’s minor conflict. Also the budgets are very unrealistic. The biggest myth is the “let’s slam this in one weekend,” concept.
The thing about gardening and landscaping is that it is constantly changing with the elements and whatever “finished product” you have will look different in a manner of weeks as it grows and weeds and leaves make their appearance.
How many times have we ran up to Lowe’s and such and grabbed random plants and flowers and mulch so our yard would be all set for spring and “laughing,” summer. I mean personally, I’ve spent so much money on things that were cheaper only to find out that the longevity of cheap isn’t worth it. I love all the annuals and different colors of flowers. If they’re carefully selected, a nice swath of a certain color can really draw out life from an otherwise mundane home. There’s an old wooden house on East Ashley that doesn’t look like much except that they put lots of red Geraniums in key spots.
Some white houses look great with a contrast of orange or yellow flowers in pots, etc. The possibilities are endless. However, when you’re picking out these instant color plants be sure that you’re not getting something that fades fast if you’re not active in the yard. A flower that blooms and quickly
fades and dies is commonly referred to as, “dead-heads.” “Dead-heading is a technique where the gardener will just go around and pick the dead blooms off. Try and pick something that will last through the season. Perennialls are nice because you get more blooms next year.
Try to stay away from rubber or plastic edging, since this will fold over and become damaged very quickly. Steel edging on the beach will eventually rot but if you’re considering steel edging order it from a landscape supply place and not Lowe’s. The pieces will be long and easier to install and many of these places will deliver it.
Whatever you do this year, try to have fun and try to forget this, “I’m going to knock out all my yearly gardening in this one weekend. Also don’t expect professionals to be on your schedule and try to replace a whole lawn or yard in time for the yearly family get together. If you’re hiring a professional get on their schedule early. It takes us a long time to get all the numbers in order and find the plants and sod in time. I recently told a customer, “You know there’s no bed, bath and beyond for plant material right?” We’re at the mercy of our vendors so plan ahead and be patient.
Anyways, everyone have a great May and enjoy the warmer weather just around the corner. Aloha!
Charlie Stonecypher is the owner of Suncoast Irrigation and Landscaping. They specialize in products that work smart without wasting resources. Contact him at (843) 327-8642 or email suncoastirrigation@gmail.com.
