There is no one correct way to plant a garden, and every garden is going to be different. There are many different factors to consider when planning to create or improve a garden space. These variables include sunlight exposure, garden position, height and composition, colors and textures, soil texture and chemical composition, weed pressure, location, shape, and function. I offer mentoring services and resources to help the DIY gardeners plan, improve, and install their own garden spaces. Working closely with clients to take soil tests, draw out garden designs, layout soil improvement plans, and maintenance regiments offers direction and confidence to those who are wanting to jump into the world of gardening. I’m available for in person mentoring sessions and Zoom sessions.

I work with clients to create beautiful, seasonal planters, that provide color all season. Planters are a single-season commitment and require minimal maintenance and upkeep. I work with clients to discuss their desired color palette, sizing, and needs for their planters.

Installing gardens on your property will help to add beauty and interest to a property during all seasons, and can even increase the value of a property. Installing a new garden includes a free consultation discussing your goals and needs for the new project. Next, I will draw out a plan and confirm the size and design meets your needs. Breaking ground, removing sod, and soil prep are done before planting, cutting a clean edge, and mulching the new bed. Each project is different, and so will be the process. 

I source plants from quality, trusted, local nurseries to find the best plants for clients. No matter your budget, plants bring color and value to outdoor spaces. 

Perennials

A beautifully designed and well thought-out perennial garden bed can bring color and interest to a garden space year-round. Perennials are a well-worth it investment in color and texture that return year after year. 

Annuals

Annuals can be added to garden spaces for more color or create an impressive bed or planter by themselves. Annuals are unique in they provide season-long color without the commitment. Change your annuals yearly based on your color preferences. 

Trees and Shrubs

Flowering trees and shrubs can offer an anchoring centerpiece for a garden, providing interest, privacy, or size to an outdoor space. Evergreens can be used for their unique shape and winter interest.  

Natives

Long island is home to many beautiful, native perennial species that bring beauty and function to a garden space by providing habitat and pollen for pollinators. Some of these native plants include and are not limited to: 

-Purple Coneflower Echinacea purpurea

-High Bush Blueberry Vaccinium corymbosum

-Black-eyed Susan Rudbekia hirta

Read this article from Long Island Natives to learn more. 

Edibles

Edibles bring value and functionality to an outdoor space. I work with clients to plant vegetables, Fruit trees and bushes, herbs, and edible flowers. 

Mulch finishes a garden bed and provides a tidy look throughout the season. Not only does mulch add an aesthetic value to an outdoor space, but it provides many other benefits for plants as well. Mulch absorbs moisture and prevents evaporation, helping to save on irrigation costs. Quality mulch breaks down over time, improving soil organic matter. Additionally, mulch acts as a natural barrier from weeds and regulates soil temperature. 

Weeding services and organic weed applications can be utilized for driveways, patios, walkways, and in garden beds before mulching. 

General garden maintenance will depend on your outdoor space’s specific needs. I am available to help with routine or one-time watering and deadheading. 

Watering

If you’re traveling out of town, busy with work or life, or just want an appropriate watering schedule for your beds to help your plants thrive, I’m available for weekly, biweekly, or one time waterings. 

Deadheading

Did you know that both perennial and annual flowers benefit from routine deadheading? Removing spent blooms helps a plant by diverting energy from seed production into producing new blooms and foliage instead. I’m available for weekly, biweekly, or one-time deadheading.

A plant’s pruning needs depend on what time of year the plant flowers, how the plant flowers, what the plant’s growth habits are, and ultimately the needs of the property owner. Pruning helps to improve the overall appearance, shape, and health of a plant, and should be timed correctly to preserve blooms and fruits. While pruning, I use sharp, clean tools to preserve the health of the plant and mitigate the spread of potential diseases.

Removing leaves, sticks, and debris from garden beds and lawns in early spring allows perennials and grass the space to wake up and start growing once the ground has thawed. Reinvigorate your garden spaces with a spring cleaning session.

In the fall, we’re able to put the garden to rest for the winter, allowing a smoother transition into the growing season for the new year. Fall cleanups ensure a prepped and polished look to your beds after your blooms have faded, and adding beauty and interest to your property during the colder months. Gardens can be beautiful year-round!

Expanding garden spaces can help to add beauty to an outdoor space and even increases the value of a property.

Minimizing a garden space can be helpful for those looking to expand their lawn and reduce the time and costs associated with keeping a garden.

Healthy plants start with healthy soils. There are various composts, fertilizers, and amendments that can be used to improve the health of your unique soil.

Knowing your soil is the first step to any successful gardening. Looking at the macro and micronutrient availability in soil allows us to make adjustments when applicable and improve the health of your plants.