Testing the Soil
A soil test tells you what the soil needs for your plants to grow well. You may need to change the soil’s pH or add fertilizer or organic matter. Soil test kits, sold at nurseries and garden centers usually measure only pH. For a more complete diagnosis, have a professional lab test your soil - it’s inexpensive and worth it. Look in the Yellow Pages under “Soil testing,” or check with your County Cooperative Extension office. The lab will tell you how to take samples for testing.

Improving the Soil
Your plants and lawn will grow better if your soil is in top shape. Add organic matter to make your soil more workable and to help it hold water and nutrients. Lay it 2 inches deep around trees, shrubs and woody ground covers. For lawns and beds, use 3 to 6 inches.
If your soil has tested too acid or alkaline, adjust its pH by adding limestone, sulfur or an equivalent. A soil pH of 6.5 is the goal.
Soil tends to return to its original pH. You’ll save work down the road by confining your pH changes to small areas. Better yet, choose plants that tolerate the existing pH in your yard.

Buying Plants
Several weeks before planting, make a shopping list and take it to your nursery. You’ll see plants there in any of several forms, including: bare root, balled and burlapped or containerized. Your choice depends on the kind of plant, its size and the time of year.
Better nurseries can special-order any plants that aren’t in stock. Try to pick up your plants or have them delivered just before planting time, so they will be in top condition.

Money-Saving Tip
Buy plants in smaller sizes, such as 1-gallon rather than 5-gallon. They will catch up in size in a year or two. If you’re working with a landscape architect or designer, see if you can accompany them to a wholesale nursery. You could save as much as 50 percent.

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!