Right Plant Right Place

Not all plants are suitable for all areas of the state or even all areas of your yard! It is important to know what site requirements (i.e. soil types, water needs, sun exposure, hardiness zone, etc.) each type of plant needs to be a healthy, vigorous addition to the landscape.

For example; If a plant prefers acidic (low pH) soils, it would not be wise to place the plant in soils that are very alkaline (high pH).   The plant would most likely struggle to grow properly and may cause the homeowner to spend more time and money applying additional fertilizers and pesticides due to the plant’s poor health!

In addition to site requirements, it is also important to know what characteristics the plant has (i.e. mature height/width, thorns, fruit, etc.) in order to place the right plant in the right place. For example; an oak tree that may have the potential to reach 70’ in height should not be planted under power lines! Likewise, a shrub that will get 8’ tall at maturity should not be planted under the living room picture window! Many times this leads to harsh pruning practices, which, in turn, detracts from the plant’s natural growth habit (form) and can potentially lead to a stressed, unhealthy plant that is more susceptible to disease and insects.

This gravel lot is a difficult location for these trees. The rocks reflect heat onto the tree, and the soil temperature can fluctuate considerably in this environment. The trees might have a better chance planted in the grass just to the right.