Avoid over-fertilizing new plantings. Fertilizers are salts that can dehydrate tender new root growth. After plants are established in the landscape, maintenance needs can be minimized by following correct maintenance procedures on a timely basis. Following are some suggestions to reduce the time and amount of maintenance necessary in established landscapes. Watch for disease and insect outbreaks regularly.
Pests are much easier to control if they are affecting only a few leaves or one branch.
By the time they spread to several plants or an entire shrub border, they will be more difficult to control. Get to know which pests and amount of injury are tolerable for various plants. Many homeowners are surprised to discover that a well-established deciduous tree can withstand complete defoliation with minor consequences. A combination of introduced ornamental grasses and native wildflowers backed by Viburnum shrubs makes an attractive low-maintenance border adapted to dry, sunny conditions. Use the right tool Power tools can make short work of many maintenance operations.