1. Fertilizer
Feel free to fertilize during the summer time, but in moderation. Use Miracle Grow for Acid-Loving Plants (available at Home Depot, Lowe's, etc.) 2-3 times a week between April 1 thru May 30. To apply, broadcast in moderation on top of root systems of all trees. Make sure it is dispersed evenly throughout soil; if not done so, the fertilizer can burn the root system and potentially kill the tree. Miracle Grow for Acid Loving Plants can also be used on all shrubs, perennials, and groundcovers. Sub-alpine firs especially love the stuff. Be careful NOT to over-fertilize, and make sure you thoroughly water all plant material directly after fertilizing. Also avoid excess fertilizer finding its way into your water feature. We highly recommend installing a constant liquid feed fertilizer injector. If you don't have one, we suggest applying one.
2. Weed Control
To significantly diminish the amount of weeding in your Utah Landscape Design, apply the pre-emergent Ronstar in early April throughout all planted areas. This will definitely help, but for the first two years before groundcover and perennials are fully established, weeds will always be a problem.
3. Sub-Alpine Fir
Sub-alpine firs are beautiful and superior evergreens, but if not properly maintained, can lose their distinction. To ensure a healthy, happy tree year-round, stay committed in applying Miracle Grow for Acid-Loving Plants. These trees will always prefer a more acidic environment opposed to alkaline. We also highly recommend that you have your sub-alpine fir sprayed at least once a year, even twice if possible (early summer and late fall) with a product that is not available on the open market and distinct to our company. This product shields the summer heat and protects against winter damage. If interested in either applying this yourself or hiring us to do it, let us know. All trees are sprayed upon completion of your job.
4. Insects
Aphids are the most common insect problem. Aphids love sub-alpine fir and beech trees, and if not taken care of, can kill of an entire tree and spread to the next one in a matter of weeks. If you happen to see a tree with insect damage, have them sprayed. If you live in an area that is susceptible to insects, it would be a good idea to have your yard routinely sprayed annually.
5. Soil Pep, Bark, etc.
Adding these organic materials to your garden helps improve almost any soil. When added to clay soil, it facilitates drainage by creating coil aggregates with pore spaces between them. In sandy soil, it improves the structure and water retention. If you decide to use any type of organic matter in your garden, do not allow any to get within 10-15 feet of your water feature (stream, pond, holding tank, etc.) If any gets into your water system, it will completely destroy the water quality and clarity of your water feature.
6. Water Feature
If your water feature ever shuts off without warning, chances are the breaker has tripped. If this is not the case, let us know, and we will send somebody out. It is also important that in the fall you watch the amount of leaves that accumulate around the end (metal grate) of your water system. If enough leaves or debris linger in this area, it can cause a thick barrier, and the water will have nowhere to go but up. This can cause all sorts of problems. Also, be sure the metal grate is clear of all debris before winter hits. If not removed, the debris will freeze and form a water tight lid. If you happen to live in area with excess leaf fall, let us know, and we can engineer a distinct metal grate for your water system.
