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common residential landscaping errors

5 Common Residential Landscaping Errors and How to Avoid Them

VWB Blog 1 year ago 10

In the US, there are currently more than 500,000 landscaping companies that employ more than 1.2 million people. Whether you’re a first-time landscaper or have been in the business for years, it’s easy to make a mistake from time to time. It’s especially easy to do if you’re trying to do it all.

From design to plant installation, every aspect of a residential landscaping project can make you money or cost you money. So, it’s critical to understand some of the most common mistakes you should avoid in your business.

If you’re interested in learning some of the most common residential landscaping errors and how to avoid them, then this is the article for you.

1. Choosing the Wrong Plant Species for Your Location

Plant species that are not adapted to the local climate will likely require a labor-intensive and expensive maintenance routine. It may struggle to survive the changing conditions throughout the year.

To avoid making this error, research the climate conditions of your area and pick suitable species based on their hardiness in those conditions. Pay attention to the soil type, drainage, and sun exposure when assessing which plants are best for your location. Additionally, consider utilizing native plant species to help preserve the local plant population.

2. Failure to Plan for Seasonal Changes

This means failing to provide perennials and trees with the resources they need to survive different seasons. Strong winds and frost can wreak havoc on your landscape if it is not prepared for the upcoming season.

To avoid this error, plan your landscape for the different seasons. If you live in a place with cold winters, research the types of plants that are best suited for your climate. In spring and summer, ensure that your flowers and bushes get enough water and fertilizer during hot, dry weather.

3. Designing a Landscape Without Preparing the Soil

It involves amending the soil to improve drainage and aeration. Without preparing the soil, the plants may struggle to grow. Poor soil can also provide the ideal conditions for weeds and pests to thrive.

To avoid errors, make sure the soil is tilled and amended before planting. Click here if you want to consider the help of landscaping experts. Adding organic matter, like compost or collected leaves, can help to improve airflow while avoiding soil compaction.

4. Overlooking Soil PH Levels

Improper soil pH levels can cause the lawn to become malnourished from the lack of nutrients. It also hinders the ability of water and air to reach the roots.

To avoid this mistake, have the soil tested beforehand. Adjust the pH levels if necessary. Use organic materials such as compost to increase the acidity or alkalinity of the soil and maintain balanced pH levels.

5. Ignoring the Necessity of Landscape Maintenance and Pruning

Neglecting to maintain landscapes can lead to an overgrown, unkempt, and underwhelming outdoor living space. To remedy this, homeowners should incorporate regular pruning practices. This is to promote healthy, lush plant growth and aesthetic appeal.

Pruning helps keep plants in balance and encourages healthy growth. It enables flowering, decreases disease, and maintains size consistency. This also helps control the shape and vigor of the plants.

Avoid Common Residential Landscaping Errors

Common residential landscaping errors can be avoided through careful planning and good gardening practices. Planning and taking the advice of a professional can go a long way to avoiding costly, time-consuming mistakes. Get your project started on the right foot and call a landscaping professional for reliable services.

If you enjoyed this post and are looking for more home improvement content, check out our other articles.

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