Landscaping - Gardening - Lawn Care

STEPS 5-10 of 10

Using a shovel or fork, mix in a 4- to 5-inch layer of compost, rotted manure, and/or peat into the soil. These additives supply a bit of nutrition to the soil, help retain moisture, and keep the soil light and airy so the roots can "breathe."

Cover the bed with landscape fabric, which will allow water and oxygen to reach plant roots but smother weed seeds. Peg the fabric into the soil, and use scissors to cut off excess material that extends over the edging.

Cut an X into the landscape fabric wherever you need to place a plant. Fold the flaps under to expose the soil.

Set your plants in the ground at the same level they were growing in their pots. If you find a swirling mass of roots, as pictured here, use a sharp knife or pruning shears to slice through the roots before planting. Make four evenly spaced cuts around the root ball, slicing an inch deep each time. This will keep the roots from continuing to swirl and possibly kill the plant. Scuff up the remaining surface roots.

If you like, lay down a soaker hose, weaving it between plants in the center of the bed. Although this is an optional step, it is a major maintenance saver. Water weeps through the hose, gently watering plants without the waste of evaporation; root watering also keeps the leaves dry and cuts the odds of a fungus infection.

A 3- to 4-inch layer of shredded bark mulch, coupled with landscape fabric, makes an impenetrable weed barrier while conserving moisture. It also gives the bed a finished look. Lay the mulch over the soaker hose, but leave the coupling visible so you can easily connect it to the garden hose.

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