Whether you’re starting a new garden or adding to your landscape, proper care is essential to ensure your plants thrive. Here are a few helpful tips: Feed the soil. New plantings rely heavily on the soil they’re placed in, so enriching it with organic amendments like compost or mulch is a great first step. Always mix these things into the topsoil before planting to encourage root penetration and moisture retention. Water with care. For new plantings, keep the soil evenly moist (but not soggy) during the first few weeks. After that, you can reduce frequency as the roots become established. A drip irrigation or sprinkler system can help automate watering, but it’s important to monitor and adjust based on the season, soil type, and weather conditions. Too much water can lead to root rot and fungus, so make sure to check the moisture of the soil before adding more. Prune regularly. Pruning isn’t just about shaping your plants—it also promotes healthy growth and prevents disease. Remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems as they appear. For flowering plants, deadheading (removing spent blooms) can encourage more blooms. For shrubs, light trimming can help guide their structure and improve airflow.

How to Care for Your Plants

By Michael Gonzalez Manager of JV Gardening and Landscaping Inc. Diamond Certified Expert Contributor