The Walleye Magazine

LET’S GET GROWING

By Hedy Koski

We all know curb appeal when we see it. But how can we achieve it? Trees, shrubs, and flowers can soften those square lines of a house and create interest, but mostly are very welcoming, especially for yourself. Driving up to your home and seeing all that beauty can give you a sense of calm after a hard day at work. Before shopping for trees, shrubs, or perennials, here are a few tips.

PLAN AHEAD

When I plan a shrub or perennial bed, I typically get out my garden hose and lay out the area with it. Then I sit back, grab a beverage, and imagine the finished project. Don’t rush it. Even sketching the look can help you visualize where bigger shrubs can go, or shorter ones, or more colourful ones, and so on. I also take into account what it looks like in winter. Shrubs and evergreens are visible in the winter, whereas perennials die down to ground level and are not usually seen. For example, I added mini Christmas lights to my shrubs out front for a pretty display.

ALWAYS READ THE TAG

All the information you need about your plant is on the tag. Take note of the plant’s maturity size, which is important if your space is small. It may be a perfect size when you buy it, but in a few short years, it will grow and may overtake your area, cover your window view, or invade your walkway, and you will quickly lose the look you wish to achieve. As well, all plants have different light requirements in order to thrive, and you will need to know how much sunlight will hit the area where you are planting. Now, I’m not saying sit out there with that beverage all day to see how much sun it gets (unless you want to), but just take note of it before you purchase anything.

COLD HARDINESS

Living here in Northwestern Ontario can be a challenge, as we are restricted to plants that have been proven to grow here. For beginners, please choose shrubs that have cold hardiness of Zone 3b or less, or Zone 4 if you have more experience. Stay away from Zone 5 or more hardiness, as it will only lead to disappointment and a waste of your money.

FOLIAGE AND BLOOMS

Most shrubs or perennials have green leaves. Some will change to a wonderful fall colour (one of my favourites). But there are a variety of burgundy-, silver-, or yellowleaved plants that you can add into the mix for some interest. As well, some plants have a blooming period. Very few bloom from spring to fall. To have a garden that blooms throughout the growing season, you can achieve this through adding different plants that bloom at different times. Check the tags for their blooming time and determine where you want them, giving a splash of colour here and there from spring to fall.

ANIMALS

If you have an issue with deer or rabbits in your yard, there are plenty of deer- and rabbit- resistant options to look for.

MULCH AND STONE

I am a believer in mulch or stone to bring that curb appeal look to a whole new level. The advantages are huge. It gives a clean look, and you won’t need to water or weed as much (just to name a few).

Remember: like they say, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” It’s your garden, and you get to decide what is beautiful.

Check out next month’s issue on planting tips for trees, shrubs, and perennials.

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2022-05-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

2022-05-01T07:00:00.0000000Z

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