Hello Gardeners!

Katherine Slayton

March 10, 2021

Isn’t it just wonderful to feel spring in the air? I don’t think I could have stood another 6 weeks of winter — Mother Nature would definitely have heard from me …

Now that there is a light at the end of that long winter tunnel, it is time to get busy preparing your garden for spring flowers and flowering bulbs. This is a good time to refresh your patio, deck, and porch containers as well.

For those of you who are beginners or novices, pick the brain of a friend who is a master gardener, or call me. Over the years, I have learned to be an active listener and trial-by-error doer. When stumped I would, and still do, turn to gardening friends, read books and magazines, and of course check the internet. One thing for sure — gardening is time-consuming!

I find it is really fun to repurpose gardens and yards! Over time my clients have enjoyed taking an active part in the transformation. If you are designing a garden, finding just the right colors, shapes, sizes, and amenities can be fun. Please let me know if you are stuck — I will be happy to look at your situation, get a feel for your vision, and make recommendations to bring your vision to life.

Trust me when I tell you not to jump the gun when it comes to putting out your new plants this spring! It can and most often does freeze between now and early April. When it comes to planting, the ground is still very cold, and this is not good for the roots. I know how tempting it is when you see all the beautiful color at the stores and garden centers. If you can’t resist, don’t plant. Place what you buy in a cool area like your garage. If you insist on bringing color back into your life, you can purchase those beautiful hanging baskets — be prepared to bring them in night after night until they are safe from freezing temperatures.

When it comes to the particulars of planting, soil preparation, blending of flower types, etc., read the labels. Aiken is Zone 8. Seek drought-tolerant and deer-resistant plants, and be prepared to water, water, water in the summer.

Keep your eyes open for attractive yard art. One of my favorite projects included lights, stained glass, and a repurposed oak table.

Remember that flowers and plants are like people. The need love and attention, food, and nutrients. I hope you have a wonderful spring. And remember, if it’s not happy where you planted it, move it!

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Katherine Slayton

I “retired” several years ago and opened Katherine By Design, a floral, wedding, event, and design company. My passion for floral design comes from watching my father. I was 27 years old when he called me one weekend to see whether I could come help, and for the first time I got to see him in a new way. His fingers moved like magic and he created the most glorious corsages I had ever seen. That was it! I fell hook, line, and sinker for design, retail floristry, and what it takes to be an entrepreneur. Visit my website at KatherineByDesign.com to contact me or shop, or visit my Facebook page to see some of my fun and creative designs.

Katherine Slayton

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