Last Updated on November 3, 2021 by Kravelv
Backyard maintenance can be difficult and time-consuming. Especially if you approach such work without a clear plan. In this article, we have collected basic tips and recommendations for gardening and choosing necessary tools.
Garden Tools
The exact list of useful instruments on the individual characteristics of a particular backyard. One gardener needs a powerful and efficient backpack leaf blower; for another, a small rake is enough. The basic set includes:
- Shovel;
- Pruning shears;
- Hoe;
- Pitchfork;
- Rake or leaf blower;
- Lawnmower;
- Saw;
- Aerator.
You can expand this list depending on your garden needs, the lawn area, and the plants and trees that grow there.
Basic Recommendations
If you’re an inexperienced gardener, backyard maintenance can seem like a big deal. When it is difficult to decide where to start, it is best to follow a gardener’s calendar. It is the easiest way to do everything on time and get the richest harvest. Here are some basic tasks your garden care routine should include.
1. Winter and spring pruning
Crowns of trees and shrubs need light and air. If there are enough of them, ideal conditions are created for the development of plants. For better flowering and harvesting, the branches of fruit and ornamental trees and shrubs should be pruned in winter or early spring. Identify the main shoot and shorten it by removing all “competitors.” Three or four branches, evenly spaced around it, should be cut in half to their upper buds at the same height.
2. Debris removing
Take a close look at the lawn and remove any debris that might interfere with sunlight and low-growing plants. It includes dead leaves from last year, grass cuttings, broken branches, and so on. It is recommended to do it when the air temperature warms up slightly (about 40-50°F) so that the beneficial insects have time to get out of hibernation, but the debris does not start to rot and become moldy.
3. Lawn and bed treating
When it’s warm enough outside, you can start treating the soil and lawn. Inspect the area for bare spots and plant with the same seeds you used previously. During the same period, it is recommended to use herbicides that destroy weeds. It is better to apply pre-emergent tools that will prevent harmful plants from taking deep roots. Make sure the soil is dry enough and start mowing the lawn. At the same time, you can plant out transplants and set up the irrigation system.
4. Plant care
During the summer, many plants, trees, and shrubs begin to bear fruit. You need to inspect them regularly to keep out pests that can destroy your crop. Loosen the soil regularly, feed the plants, and support the branches if they bend under the weight of fruits. Summer is a great time to clone shrubs and trees using cuttings. Remember to water your plants regularly and properly. Collect ripe fruits in time so that new ones can appear.
5. Getting ready for wintering
When autumn comes and the weather gets cooler, it’s time to start preparing your plants for winter. Feed and prune trees and shrubs. Regularly remove debris (fallen leaves and grass clippings) before the onset of cold weather. It is also recommended to cover heat-loving plants to protect them from temperature extremes. If snow has already fallen in your area, make sure that tree branches do not break under its weight.
Adapt to Your Garden Needs
There is no one-size-fits-all set of tips that is perfect for any garden. Therefore, it is important to know the basic rules and adapt to the needs of your plants. Do not get hung up on someone’s advice but find your way. It is the personal experience gained over time that will help you in your gardening work.