Although much of what you see in the landscape around you may be dormant, the universe beneath your feet is teeming. Root systems, microorganisms and the soil itself are beginning to emerge from winter. When this underground network flourishes, so do your plants and trees. Helping this process along is the single most important factor in determining how well your landscape will perform throughout the year.

ELM recommends the following to better position your landscape for spring’s big reveal:

1. Identify and repair damage to hardscape, sidewalks, retaining walls, parking lots, terraced areas and architectural elements to ensure optimum functionality and safety.
2. Remove winter weather plant damage to improve new growth when warmer temperatures arrive.
3. Prepare and recondition the soil for planting, to improve fertility, improve its ability to absorb nutrients, facilitate better drainage.
4. Apply properly selected pre-emergents and proactive control measures to curb weeds that are already germinating, and specialized applications to inhibit pests.
5. Apply slow-release fertilizers and targeted nutrient applications to give your landscape the right amount of what it needs to thrive.
6. Prune to encourage new growth and cutback larger plants, shrubs and trees to give them a fresh start on the new season.
7. Prepare irrigation systems by bringing them back on line, testing for zone repairs and leaks, and identify improvements that help conserve and manage water use.
8. Prepare and install new plantings and identify ways the landscape can be improved by planting trees, perennials, color rotation, ornamental grasses and shrubs.
9. Clean debris and mulch.
10. Review your landscape maintenance needs overall and make a strategic plan to fix, improve or enhance.

To learn more about improving your asset value through improved landscape strategies, go to: https://www.easternland.com/our-services/landscape-management/
Or contact Bruce Moore @ 203.316.5433.

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February 2017