This time of year going green means getting outside and working in the yard, in an environmentally friendly way. Here are some tips for successful results: put the right plant in the proper location, consider sun versus shade, dry versus wet locations, also in the Pawling area many of the valley regions have limestone soils so use plants that flourish in these types of soil conditions.
Choose insect and disease resistant plants. Native plants have adapted to our soils and climate and they require less pesticides, fertilizer, and water. Also, use a complimentary variety of plants that creates a diversified habitat. For instance, create a hedge with many different plant varieties rather than a hedge with only one plant variety, this creates a healthier landscape.
Amend the soil with compost. Natural compost will enhance and improve the soil and in most cases will eliminate our dependence on fertilizer. If soil tests show a need for fertilizer make sure it is a slow release all natural fertilizer high in minerals.
Use mulch, the best mulch is organic, composted, and undyed two to three inches deep. Mulch keeps weeds down, keeps the soil from drying out, keeps the soil moist and breaks down to add body to the soil.
Prune trees and shrubs properly. Remove dead, dying, and diseased wood. Prune to maintain the plants natural appearance. Keep an eye on your plants and watch out for anything unusual so problems can be caught early.
Use low impact pesticides as a last resort. Try natural methods first then low toxicity treatments second. If an infestation occurs identify the problem, use the proper treatment, and monitor the progress. Most problems can be treated with simple soaps and oil. It is natural for plants to have an occasional insect on the leaves and stems. Also, most insects are beneficial. So, it is important to identify the species before treatment. A common sense approach to our garden, landscape, and outdoor living area goes a long way to keeping our environment green.