Pro Tips for Maintaining Your Yard
Maintaining a beautiful, thriving landscape in Nebraska can be a rewarding yet challenging endeavor, given the state’s unique climate. Whether you’re dealing with hot, dry summers, freezing winters, or unpredictable spring rains, proper yard care can make all the difference. Here at Priority Landscape, we’re passionate about helping you keep your yard looking pristine year-round. In this post, we’ll share our top professional tips for maintaining a healthy, vibrant landscape that will thrive through all four seasons.
Water Wisely
In Nebraska, water conservation is key, especially during the hot summer months. Over-watering and under-watering can both stress your plants. Here’s how to water wisely:
Water deeply, but infrequently: It's better to give your plants a deep watering every few days than shallow water every day. This encourages deep root growth, which helps plants withstand drought conditions.
Water early in the morning or late in the evening: This reduces evaporation and ensures that the water penetrates deeply into the soil. Avoid watering during the hottest part of the day, as much of the water will evaporate before it reaches the roots.
Consider drought-tolerant plants: Choose native or drought-tolerant plants for your landscaping. These plants are adapted to Nebraska’s fluctuating weather and will need less water and maintenance.
Choose the Right Plants for the Region
The key to a low-maintenance yard is planting species that thrive in Nebraska's climate. The wrong plants can lead to poor growth, pest issues, and added stress on your part.
Native plants: Native species, like Black-eyed Susans, Purple Coneflowers, and Switchgrass, are adapted to Nebraska’s temperature extremes and are naturally resistant to pests and diseases.
Hardy trees and shrubs: Look for trees and shrubs that can handle Nebraska's temperature swings, such as Red Maples, Oaks, and Junipers. These hardy plants will require less attention and are less likely to succumb to the state’s extreme weather.
Regular Lawn Care
If you have a lawn, regular care is essential to keep it lush and green. Here’s what you should focus on:
Mowing at the right height: Mow your lawn at the proper height for the grass variety you have. For cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass, 2.5–3 inches is ideal. Longer grass encourages deeper roots and healthier lawns.
Fertilize seasonally: Fertilizing your lawn in spring and fall provides essential nutrients and helps your grass recover after the harsh winter. Use a slow-release fertilizer to ensure your lawn gets steady nourishment throughout the season.
Control weeds early: Weeds can quickly take over a yard, so it’s important to keep them in check. Use pre-emergent herbicides in early spring to prevent weed seeds from germinating, and spot treat any existing weeds during the growing season.
Mulch Like a Pro
Mulching is a simple and effective way to maintain a healthy landscape. It helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature. When applying mulch, follow these tips:
Apply 2-3 inches of mulch: Any more than that, and you risk suffocating the roots of your plants. Less than 2 inches may not be enough to suppress weeds or retain moisture.
Use organic mulch: Bark, wood chips, or shredded leaves are excellent choices. These break down over time, enriching the soil with organic matter.
Keep mulch away from plant stems and tree trunks: Piling mulch directly against plant stems or tree trunks can lead to rot and pest problems. Leave a small gap between the mulch and the plant base.
Prune and Trim Regularly
Pruning is essential to keeping trees and shrubs healthy, as well as maintaining the shape and structure of your landscape.
Prune dead or diseased branches: Removing unhealthy parts of your plants helps prevent the spread of disease and allows for better air circulation.
Prune during the right season: For most trees and shrubs, early spring (before new growth appears) or late winter (while the plant is dormant) is the best time for pruning.
Don’t over-prune: Only remove what is necessary to promote healthy growth. Over-pruning can stress the plant and cause it to become weak or unbalanced.
Winterizing Your Landscape
Nebraska winters can be harsh on your yard, but a little preparation can protect your landscape and set it up for success come spring.
Rake up fallen leaves and debris: Leaving leaves and plant debris on your lawn over the winter can smother your grass, leading to fungal diseases. Clean up your lawn before the snow falls.
Water before the freeze: If you haven’t had significant rain, water your plants thoroughly in late fall to help them survive winter dormancy.
Protect vulnerable plants: Wrap young or sensitive trees with burlap or tree wrap to protect them from winter winds and extreme cold. For perennial plants, cover the root zones with a thick layer of mulch to insulate them.
Proper landscape maintenance in Nebraska requires a bit of attention to detail, but with these pro tips, you can ensure that your yard not only survives but thrives in any season. Whether you're managing your lawn, nurturing new plants, or preparing for winter, consistent care and attention to local climate conditions will keep your landscape looking its best.
If you need help getting started or maintaining your outdoor space, our team at Priority Landscape is here to lend a hand. We offer a range of services designed to keep your yard healthy, beautiful, and low-maintenance all year long. Contact us today to learn more!