There is nothing like carefully-placed, well-maintained bushes to bring a sense of harmony and visual interest to your landscaping. Like all plants, they do need some tender care and the right nutrients to keep your home looking beautiful all year long. Whether you’re tending traditional rose bushes or some Henry’s Garnet sweetspire, the do’s and don’ts below will help the shrubs thrive.

Do:

Water them regularly.

Even hardy shrubs will wither and dry out without enough water, but too much moisture can wash away nutrients and drown the roots. Every plant needs different amounts of water, so it’s important to understand the specifics of your plant.  Also, keep in mind that water needs change with the seasons.

Spread mulch around the base.

Mulch keeps the soil from getting waterlogged in a storm or dried out by the sun. It also replenishes the soil, replacing vital nutrients the plants need.

Mulch materials have a rich color and interesting texture that can help the landscaping stand out. When adding mulch, only apply about 3 or 4 inches around the shrub’s base, taking care not to pile it up against the trunk.

Don’t:

Prune shrubs yourself.

Trimming back an overgrown shrub may seem like a simple DIY project, but improper pruning can actually threaten the health of the plants. It is important to prune plants at the right time of year. For example, azaleas set their buds in fall and if they are pruned in late fall or early spring, the bloom buds will be removed and the plant will not have flowers that season. 

Remove dying plants yourself.

Insects and diseases can leave shrubs looking sickly and brown, so you may think the best approach is to simply tear them out. However, a professional may be able to save your plants by removing affected branches so the rest of the plant can thrive.

Improper removal techniques can also spread mold spores and disease to nearby plants, so call a landscaping expert before taking out a sick shrub.

Since 1988, Glynn Young's Landscaping & Nursery Center has been beautifying homes throughout Jessamine County, KY, by planting dream gardens. Whether you’re picking up supplies for your own project or looking for a whole new landscaping design, the team can help create the yard you’ve always wanted. To learn how they can help your shrubs thrive, visit their website or call (859) 885-6100.