First steps

1. Determine where the garden will be.

Things to consider at this step:

a.     Sun exposure through the course of the day

b.    Drainage

c.     Size of area

d.    Soil quality (visit the University of Missouri Soil and Plant testing laboratory website for details: http://soilplantlab.missouri.edu/)

2. Determine what to plant. Visit the Garden Design and Themes page for ideas.

Things to consider at this step:

a.     Is your selection appropriate in size, shape, color.

b.    Is it compatible with other plants you wish to use with respect to light, water and fertility requirements?

c.     How fast will it grow and will it still be appropriate at the end of the season or in five years.

d.    How will it look in all four seasons?

e.    If it has winter appeal, will it be situated so that you can appreciate it from indoors?

f.      Wildlife, particularly deer, squirrels and other rodents can be a nuisance in any garden, consider plant varieties that are known not to attract pests.

3. Determine the exact layout—use graph paper to diagram the garden to scale.

            Things to consider at this step:

a.     Determine the exact layout—where will each plant be in relation to others nearby.

b.    Ensure that each plant will have an appropriate amount of space.

c.     Consider where each plant's shadow will fall and how it will impact its neighbors.

d.    In general tall plants should be near the back if the garden abuts a structure and near the center if the garden is free-standing (away from a structure).

e.    If an irrigation system is desired, it should be installed first.

4. Garden accents such as statuary help determine the overall character of a garden. Determine what extras you desire, if any.

Things to consider at this step:

a.     Accents cast shadows just like plants, place them appropriately in relation to nearby plants.

b.    Vines can damage painted surfaces and cause other damage to objects with small or moving parts.

c.     Objects that need to be maintained should be located in a way that facilitates easy access. Items that are difficult to reach are prone to neglect.

d.    Wildlife (invited and otherwise) can be a significant part of any garden. Bird baths, feeders and houses should be appropriately placed for maximum use and optimum viewing.

5. Last steps—Maintenance. All of your hard work to this point must be properly maintained to ensure maximum longevity and satisfaction.

            Things to consider at this step:

a.     Proper watering is the key to the long-term prosperity of any garden. Be mindful of your garden’s water requirements and remember that infrequent deep watering is beneficial whereas frequent shallow watering is harmful.

b.    Fertilize regularly with an appropriate fertilizer—always read and follow the manufacturer’s directions.

c.     Remove dead leaves, flowers and plants, all of which can harbor harmful insects and pathogens.

d.    Scout for and remove weeds regularly. Weeds compete for light and nutrients and give the garden an unkempt appearance.

e.    Scout for insect damage and disease and treat outbreaks appropriately.

f.      Mulch. A 2-4” layer of mulch provides many benefits; mulch adds organic matter to soil which improves soil tilth, fertility and water holding capacity. Mulch hinders weeds and helps maintain soil moisture, protects roots and moderates changes in soil temperature.