Gardening Tips

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 It may sound obvious, but not everything grows everywhere, so what you plant is determined by where you live. “Take a look at the characteristics of your garden area—from the climate to sun exposure,” says Brian Sullivan, Vice President for Gardens, Landscape, and Outdoor Collections at The New York Botanical Garden. “It’s the most important thing to start with because you’ll want to understand the limits and the possibilities.”

Talk to someone who works at your local garden center about the best native plants for your region, says Chris Lambton, professional landscaper and host of DIY Network’s Yard Crashers. “These will perform the best with less maintenance.”

The USDA Plant Hardiness for South Jersey/Pine Barrens area (central/eastern Burlington County) is 7A to 7B. 

 “Give a consistent and ample amount of water,” says Sullivan. “’Consistent’ means you’re doing it on a regular basis and ‘ample’ means enough, which varies from plant to plant. Make sure the water penetrates the soil as opposed to just putting a little bit on the surface.” Newer plants will need to be watered more frequently because their root systems aren’t completely developed. As for the best time of day, Lambton suggests early morning before it gets too warm so the plant can really soak up the water. If you water in the evening, your plants might be more prone to fungus and other diseases 

 To avoid over-crowding, Sullivan suggests researching your plants first so you know exactly how big they will get and how to space them out accordingly. “Typically perennials, plants that live for more than two years, should be spaced approximately 18 inches apart,” says Dailey. “This allows enough room for new growth and will usually make the garden look filled right away.”

It’s also important to know how high your plants will grow, he says. “Shorter and creeping ones should be planted toward the front and edges of the garden bed, with the taller plants in the back.” This is where knowing about sun exposure comes in handy—be mindful of taller plants that would block smaller ones, or the varieties that prefer a lot of sun or shade.

 “Growing vegetables is a fun introduction to gardening,” says Sullivan. They don’t take as long to grow, so if you make a mistake you won’t have wasted months and months of your time. Sunflowers are also a good option, since they grow quickly and tall, or try easy-to-grow ferns—both of these can be grown all across the United States. “Early success is inspiring,” he says. “It will make you want to start planting more complicated plants. Have fun with it! 

 To get a thorough reading of your soil’s pH and nutrient levels, send a sample to your local nursery or cooperative extension, suggests garden expert Christy Dailey of Christy Gardens. The results will tell you how acidic or alkaline your soil is, which affects how plants absorb nutrients. Since different plants thrive best in different pH levels, this test will help you decide what to plant or indicate how you should treat the soil.

Examine soil texture, too. “It should be easily shoveled and crumble in your hands,” says Annette Gutierrez, owner of Potted in Los Angeles. “If your soil is super hard or clay-like, it will be difficult for most plants to grow roots. Add fresh soil, mulch, and compost, being careful to aerate as much and as deep an area as you can before planting.

 Remove weeds, rocks, and dead grass. Till or rake the soil to a depth of about 3 inches to ensure it is loose. Incorporate compost or topsoil to improve soil quality if necessary.   Choose the right grass seed for your climate. Use a broadcast or drop spreader for even application, spreading half the seed in one direction and the other half in a perpendicular direction.  Lightly rake the seed into the soil, aiming for a depth of no more than 1/4 inch. You can cover the area with a thin layer of straw to protect it from birds and prevent it from drying out.   Apply a starter fertilizer.  Water lightly and frequently to keep the seedbed moist, but not saturated, for 2–3 weeks, or until the grass is about 1 inch high.  Once the grass reaches 2.5 to 3 inches in height, it is safe to mow for the first time.  

 Mulch protects soil, retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and enhances garden aesthetics when applied in a 2–4 inch layer during spring or fall.  Remove existing weeds and debris. Water the area thoroughly so the soil is moist before covering it.  Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch. Too little is ineffective; too much (over 4 inches) can restrict air and water. Keep mulch 1–2 inches away from the base of trees, shrubs, and perennials to avoid trapping moisture against the bark, which can cause rot or pest issues.