If you're looking for a way to give your yard an extra bit of life and charm, look no further than shrubs! Shrubs can be the perfect addition to any garden or outdoor space, adding vibrant color and texture. Whether you have an existing garden or are just starting, you must know how to care for shrubs properly if you want them to survive and thrive. This article will discuss the basics of shrub care and maintenance in Bartlett to help ensure your plants stay healthy and beautiful!

What is a Shrub?

A shrub is a small, perennial, woody plant typically growing less than 15 feet tall. They are often multi-stemmed and have a variety of shapes and sizes. Shrubs can also be trained into a single-stem habit mimicking tree, called tree-form shrubs. These plants are popular in gardens and outdoor spaces as they add texture, color, and life to the area. They can come in wide varieties from evergreen to deciduous, flowering to nonflowering. 

Types of Shrubs in Bartlett, TN

Bartlett, TN, is home to an array of shrubs that can bring beauty to any garden or outdoor space. There are plenty of options, from evergreen shrubs like boxwood and holly to flowering shrubs like rhododendron, azaleas, and forsythia. Popular native plants found in Bartlett include the Oakleaf Hydrangea, Southern Magnolia, and Azalea.

How to Take Care of Shrubs?

Caring for shrubs is relatively easy, but it does require some attention and understanding of the needs of different types of plants. The first step in successful shrub care is to choose the right plant for your climate and soil type. Depending on the variety, planting in an area that receives full sun or partial shade will also ensure proper growth. With regular care and attention, your shrubs will reward you with beautiful ornamentals each season!

Plant the Shrubs at the Right Time

One of the most important steps in ensuring your shrubs thrive is planting them at the right time. Planting at the wrong time of year can result in stunted growth and disease. The best time to plant shrubs depends on where you live, but fall is generally the ideal season for planting. This allows plants enough time to become established before winter sets in. When preparing to plant, dig a hole twice as wide as the pot or root ball and add some compost or fertilizer to help with root establishment. After planting, water deeply and regularly until new growth appears. You'll have lush shrubs with proper timing and care in no time!

Schedule the Watering Process

Watering your shrubs is essential for their health and longevity. The amount of water needed can vary greatly depending on where you live. Watering every other day may be necessary for areas with hot, dry summers. In cooler climates, once a week should suffice. When watering, a sprinkler or hose is essential to ensure the soil around your shrubs is thoroughly saturated. Avoid using a spray nozzle, as this will not effectively penetrate the soil. Additionally, try to water in the morning or evening rather than during the day's heat. Doing so will help minimize evaporation and ensure your plants get the most out of their drink!

Follow Proper Feeding Habits

It is vital to feed your shrubs properly to ensure their health and growth. Newly planted shrubs should not be provided with fertilizers, which could cause damage. Instead, mulch the soil with compost or other organic materials to enrich the soil with micronutrients. For shrubs that have been in place for some time, use a balanced fertilizer according to the need of the plants. If your shrubs are fragile, add a layer of compost around them to boost up the nutrients in the soil. When fertilizing, following directions closely is crucial so you don't overfeed your plants and harm them instead! Additionally, never apply fertilizer during periods of drought, as this will increase stress on your plants.

Prune at the Right Times

Pruning your shrubs is essential for maintaining their shape and size. The best time to prune your shrubs is in the spring when most of the growth has occurred. Pruning at this time will help you shape the shrub into a desired form and remove any dead or diseased branches. Use sharp pruning shears or loppers for bigger branches to do this properly. Always prune at an angle that allows more sunlight and air circulation to reach the center of the plant. When pruning, ensure not to cut too far back as it could damage the shrub's health. Additionally, be aware of what kind of shrub you have before pruning so you know how much and where to trim it! 

Stalk or Tie the Branches

Stalking or tying the branches of your shrubs will help them grow strong and sturdy. Stalks should be used when the shrub is weak, as it helps to keep the branches upright and in place. The stalk should be the same height as the tree, and a heavy-wrapped wire can tie it securely. It's important to remember to cover the wire with a hose so that it doesn't grind into the tree's bark. You may also use ties instead of stalks, which will help protect young branches from breaking due to wind or other elements. Tie each branch loosely but firmly, and ensure no damage to any buds or leaves to avoid stunting growth.

Test the Soil

Testing your soil is essential for understanding the needs of your shrubs. With regular testing, you can make sure your shrubs stay healthy and happy! The soil should be tested for pH balance, nutrient levels, and other elements to help ensure your shrubs have the nutrients they need to thrive. You can purchase a pH testing kit from a garden center or online store, which will accurately read the soil's acidity. You should also test for nitrogen and phosphorus levels and any other nutrients lacking in the ground. Once you have an accurate reading of your soil, you can determine which fertilizer to use to give your shrubs the nourishment they need.

Look out for Pests on the Lawn

It's essential to watch for pests in the lawn that can damage your shrubs. Common pests include aphids, beetles, mites, and caterpillars. These pests can cause damage to your shrubs by eating their leaves or stem. The best way to protect your shrubs from unwanted visitors is to inspect them regularly for any signs of infestation. It would help if you also periodically used an insecticide or pesticide to keep pests at bay. Additionally, it's helpful to keep the area around your shrubs free of debris and other organic matter that might attract unwanted pests. 

Retain the Moisture by Mulching

Mulching is a great way to ensure your shrubs have enough nourishment to stay healthy throughout their life! It helps to retain moisture, protect them from extreme temperatures, and suppress weeds. To begin the mulching process, you should first spread a two-to-four-inch layer of organic mulch, such as pine bark, wood chips, or tree bark, around the base of the shrub. This will help lock in the moisture and keep the roots cool in hot weather. During winter, you can add another one-inch layer of mulch on top for extra insulation. Other types of mulch include straw, grass clippings, and leaf mold, which are also beneficial for your shrubs' health.

How Can Herbi-Systems Help?

If you are looking for shrub care in Bartlett, TN - contact us! Herbi-Systems is a company that specializes in providing comprehensive lawn and garden care for homeowners. Our talented technicians can help diagnose problems and solve your shrub care needs.