SERVING FLORIDA SINCE 1990

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HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR ORNAMENTALS

When it comes to ornamental care keeping them healthy includes:

  • Fertilization
  • Proper Watering and Sunlight
  • Staking
  • Pruning
  • Mulching
  • Weed Prevention
  • Insect and Fungus Control

Fertilization

Just like you give your lawn fertilizer, you need to provide your plant with the appropriate fertilizers for strong growth. There are a variety of fertilizers available. When choosing a fertilizer consider the nutrients in relation to the needs of the plants being fertilized.

Proper Watering and Sunlight

When it comes to watering, take the same approach with most ornamentals as you would the lawn. Water deeply, giving a good soaking weekly rather than shallow, infrequent watering. Watering in the morning will also help avoid evaporation so the water can penetrate the roots. Be cautious that some ornamentals are very drought tolerant and overwatering can be a concern. The amount of water will depend on the type of plant and the soil its planted in. Make sure the choice of plants is suitable for the light and water conditions on your property. Its always good to check your plants for dehydration, including wilting and yellowing.

Staking

Using stakes can help support taller plants and protect them from severe summer thunderstorms that bring heavy winds. Without staking, tall ornamentals can droop to the soil after heavy rain.

Pruning

It’s good to maintain the shape of your ornamentals and remove dead or diseased branches by pruning. Most plants can benefit from some summer thinning to help increase air circulation and encourage new growth.

Mulching

Plants can benefit from the root insulation that mulch provides in the extreme summer heat. Mulch will also discourage weed growth and retain moisture in the soil for the plants.

Weed Prevention

Weeds compete with plants for water and nutrients in the soil. Landscape fabric, ornamental bed treatments and hand pulling weeds are other effective options from stopping weeds from growing out of your ornamental beds.

Insect and Fungus Control

Doing all the above will encourage healthy plants, but doesn’t take away the possibility of fungus or pests. Be alert to signs of damage like discoloration or holes in the foliage. Pests are drawn to the favorable conditions that support shrubs and ornamentals. Having a fungicide and insecticide treatment on the ornamental beds will help them thrive.

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