When it comes to choosing plants we’ll actually be able to maintain, most of us are making the same mistake: We pick out the plants we want before we consider the conditions in our backyard. Why is this a problem? If we’re not sure what type of soil we have or we haven’t analyzed how much sunlight the space gets, we could be choosing plants that have no shot at survival. Besides environmental conditions, being honest with ourselves about how often we’re willing to water our plants and how much maintenance we have time to take on will also influence which plants we should buy.
To figure out how to select the perfect plants for your own outdoor space, there are a few general rules to follow that will help you avoid future difficulties. As it turns out, considering these five factors before you head to the nursery can help you choose plants that are sure to thrive.
Check the Soil, and Choose the Right Potting Soil
Before you head to the nursery, take a look at your soil. After a heavy rain (or if you leave a sprinkler running), does it dry out after a couple of days or stay wet for a while? Plants that like it on the dry side (like lavender) sulk when their roots stay wet. Plants that don’t like it dry will look wilted and fade away if they don’t get to drink enough. Knowing what the soil does is one piece of the puzzle; the other is having a realistic sense of how much you want to water.
When you’re planting in-ground, enriching your soil before planting can help your plants thrive in their new home. Look for a high-performance organic option. The right premium potting soil can double your yield of flowers, vegetables, and herbs, compared to unfed plants. If you’re not sure which potting soil is best for the plants you have in mind, check with the experts at your local greenhouse.
