It may be difficult to recognize when to replace your landscape plants. The landscape is always growing and changing. We tend to get used to our landscapes and become blind to the subtle changes from year to year.
As trees and shrubs grow, they are altering the light, water, and nutrient availability of the rest of the plants in your yard. These affected plants may be showing stress, fail to blossom vigorously, or may even be slowly dying. For this reason, what you may have planted in the perfect spot three years ago may now be in the wrong environment.
Take a Critical Look
A good landscape design anticipates the effect of time on the landscape, allowing for growth and maturing over time. However, adjustments are often needed. I hear it all the time, you went to a garden center and found the cutest plant only to see it take over the landscape in just a few seasons, crowding out other plantings, and smothering the lawn. When you can no longer see your windows or your plantings have you moving sideways through the walkway, it is time to replace them. Step across the street and look at your house for a few minutes. The front entry, and access to it, should be easy to see and look inviting. The trees, shrubs, and other plants should frame the home, make it look attractive, and not overwhelm it.
Time is a Factor
Another reason to replace plants in the landscape is that all plants have a life expectancy. Ornamental trees may last only 15-20 years or so while other trees will outlive you and perhaps your children and grandchildren. But those yews that were planted 20 years ago have been hedged and hedged. They should be retired. Or, if you haven’t hedged them, they may be two stories tall by now. It is time to replace them.
Perennials need attention over time, too. At some point they will require dividing, some more frequently than others. When the clumps enlarge, get dense, and flowering slows, it is time to divide or replace them. Consider replacing them with a newer variety, or a color or texture that would add dimension to the garden.
It Looks OK, Doesn’t It?
Maybe the landscape came with the house! Maybe it looks okay, but does it suit you? Does it welcome you home as you pull in the drive? It should.
We still have some room in our fall schedule for a landscape transformation. If you are ready to make a change or add to your existing landscape, give us a call.
We are proud to have been trusted by Michigan homeowners for over 35 years. To learn more about our professional landscaping services, click here. To view our portfolio of custom landscape design projects, visit this link. And please, don’t be shy to get in touch to learn more about our custom landscape design and build services. We would love to help you create your own little piece of paradise in Michigan.
