Understanding the interdependence of these inputs is of primary importance to the success of the landscape. TPHC requires the gardener to use all available site and plant data and all available horticultural data to determine the correct maintenance input for the time and site specific situation. In other words, TPHC requires the gardener to use common sense. The benefit of thorough planning is a landscape which offers beauty, harmony with the native surroundings and ease of care. The consequences of poor planning can be disastrous both aesthetically and economically.
Sandy soils require more irrigation to insure adequate root zone moisture.
In the planter bed, basins should be built well beyond the dripline of the plant. Humus directly increases the plant's ability to assimilate food, as well as increasing resistance to insects, disease, drought and other stresses. We strongly recommend the use of natural organic sources of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and all secondary and trace elements. Aside from the elemental plant food, these sources provide organic matter, essential microbial activity and humus. As with all cultural inputs, precise fertility needs will vary with the specific soil type, climate, etc., and will vary according to the type of plant.