Five Common Garden Mistakes
and How to Avoid Them
1. Over-Maintaining:
We've all been there – showering our plants with love and care, sometimes a bit too much. Native plants, however, aren't fans of excessive pruning or heavy doses of fertilizer. Over-pruning stimulates weak growth, and the result can be trees toppling over in storms due to dense canopies. Native plants thrive without much additional fertilization, as they're adapted to low-nutrient soils. The exception? Plants in containers may need a bit of extra nourishment.
2. Using Unsuitable Plants:
Choosing plants that aren't native to your region can lead to a host of issues. Native plants have evolved over thousands of years to withstand the harsh conditions of the desert. By opting for native species, you not only fulfill your aesthetic preferences but also contribute to the restoration of the natural ecosystem, creating wildlife habitats and corridors. These plants are well-suited to the climate, requiring fewer resources and showing greater resilience to environmental changes.
3. Irrigation Pitfalls:
Watering is a delicate balance. Over-watering or not watering deeply enough is a common mistake. Native plants prefer a good soak followed by a period of drying out. Deep watering encourages roots to grow down into the soil, providing stability against winds and floods. Shallow watering leaves the roots vulnerable. Think about the root system and water accordingly, especially for trees and shrubs. As the plant grows make sure to move and add the emitters.
4. Neglecting Mature Size:
A cautionary tale lies in the tale of a front yard with ten trees crammed into a tiny space. I was heartbroken watching over the years as the trees were pruned to death eventually dying one by one. Planning for a plant's mature size is crucial. Whether it's trees or smaller pollinator plants, understanding their growth patterns is essential. Proper spacing ensures a harmonious landscape, avoiding the need for constant pruning or the risk of overcrowding.
5. Dependency on Traditional Gardening Practices:
Trusting gardeners or landscapers who lack knowledge of native plants can lead to mismanagement. The unique demands of desert gardening, from irrigation to planting times, set it apart from more traditional practices. Native plants require a different approach, and relying solely on conventional wisdom might not yield the best results.
Understanding and respecting the needs of native plants is the key to a thriving desert garden. Let's nurture our landscapes with the wisdom that comes from coexisting with the unique conditions of our beautiful desert environment.
