by Emily Vogler | Jul 24, 2022
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Oakleaf hydrangeas are a type of deciduous shrub that is known for its large, showy flower clusters. While these shrubs are relatively low–maintenance, they do require some pruning in order to keep them looking their best. Now that the summer is in full swing, it’s time to prune oakleaf hydrangeas!
Here are some tips on how to prune oakleaf hydrangeas:
1. The best time to prune oakleaf hydrangeas is after flowering stops in late summer, but a light trim at any time of the year is good! This will help keep your hydrangeas looking neat and tidy.
2. Start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. You can do this any time of the year as soon as you notice damaged branches. Broken branches can allow diseases to enter the plant, weakening the overall system of your hydrangea.
3. Next, thin out the shrub by removing any overcrowded or crossing branches. When the branching structure starts to cross, it crowds the flowers, and when they get larger they’ll start to rub up against one another and bruise. Simply pick which brand you want to keep, new growth or older growth. Pay attention to the direction of growth, and don’t cut too flush with the plant. Removing crossing branches opens up the structure of the plant and allows airflow to enter.
4. A harsh pruning isn’t necessary for oakleaf hydrangeas. Simply keeping their branches neat and tidy and removing dead branches will go a long way for the health of your plant.
Pro tip: always use clean, sharp pruning shears when pruning oakleaf hydrangeas. By following these tips, you can keep your oakleaf hydrangeas looking neat and tidy.
With a little bit of care, they will continue to produce beautiful flower clusters for many years to come. To learn how to choose the right hydrangea, read our blog here!
by Emily Vogler | Jul 19, 2022
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Sometimes a homeowner gives a landscape designer a small canvas and directs them to fill it to its best potential. Other times, the homeowner/gardener has a specific request – an idea, a look, a few must-have features — and calls on a designer to bring it to reality.
That was the request of this homeowner in East Nashville. They had visions of all primary colors surrounding the house, especially with lush growth and dimension. Over the course of several years, they worked closely with Gardens of Babylon designers Chloe Barrett & Phil Heimer to achieve the look. The designers give the details on how the landscape developed:
What did the homeowners want?
“This homeowner requested the landscape to be filled with plants of all primary colors, with lots of blooms and dimension. They wanted to beef up their small backyard space as well!”, Barrett says. With a smaller plot of land, and much of it receiving full sun, there would be plenty of options for fulfilling that request.
What was the biggest challenge?
“The biggest challenge was easily creating a full but tidy feel in a small footprint.” Small spaces can still be beautiful and inviting with the right landscaping. Pops of color from flowers and other plants can brighten up any space, no matter how small. With a little bit of planning, any small space can be turned into a beautiful and serene oasis. “Another challenge was overcoming the shaded areas that didn’t have proper drainage, but ultimately we came up with a solution,” says Heimer.
What is the best feature?
“Hands down the best feature of the site is the seasonal perennial blooms and annual color. Also, the back courtyard really adds a nice touch and ties together the whole property. She also has the sweetest dog,” says Chloe. Another plus from both designers said “this client was and is really lovely to work with, and truly a delightful client.”
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The Gardens of Babylon landscape design team is ready to help with you landscaping needs. Click here to book a phone consultation with a member of the design team.
by Emily Vogler | Jul 11, 2022
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When it comes to landscaping in Middle Tennessee, there are a few key things to keep in mind. The first is that the climate can be hot and humid, so you’ll want to choose plants that can withstand that. The second is that the soil here is generally clay–based, so you’ll want to avoid plants that need a lot of water or that are susceptible to root rot. With those things in mind, here are a few of the best landscaping plants for Middle Tennessee:
1. Crepe myrtle
This heat–loving plant is perfect for Middle Tennessee, as it can tolerate both the hot summers and the clay soil. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors and can grow to be quite large, making it a great focal point for any landscaping design.
2. Japanese holly
If you’re looking for an evergreen that can add some year–round interest to your landscaping, Japanese holly is a great option. It’s tolerant of both the heat and the clay soil, and it can be pruned into a variety of shapes, making it versatile for any landscape.
3. Butterfly bush
Butterfly bush is a great choice for Middle Tennessee landscaping because it attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, adding a touch of beauty to your yard. It’s also tolerant of the heat and clay soil, and it can be pruned to keep it under control.
4. Oakleaf hydrangea
This native plant is perfect for Middle Tennessee, as it can tolerate both the heat and the clay soil. It has beautiful white blooms that appear in the summer, and its leaves change color in the fall, making it a great addition to any landscape.
5. Rose of Sharon
Rose of Sharon is a heat–loving plant that can add a touch of color to your Middle Tennessee landscape. It blooms in the summer, and its flowers can be white, pink, or purple, depending on the variety. It’s also tolerant of the clay soil.
With so many great options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect plants for your Middle Tennessee landscape. Just remember to choose plants that can tolerate the heat and clay soil, and you’ll be sure to have a beautiful yard that you can enjoy for years to come. If you are looking for plants that will thrive in your Middle Tennessee landscape, stop on into the gar den center – we’re stocked on all kinds of plants that will thrive in your landscaping. Our staff can help you choose the perfect plants for your area! Or, to start designing the landscape of your dreams, schedule a consultation!
by Emily Vogler | Jul 10, 2022
July has plenty of challenges; protecting landscapes from intense heat, severe weather, and annoying pests – it’s not always an easy task! Here are some landscaping tips to keep in mind during July so that you can keep your yard thriving even during the most intense and unpredictable summer months:
- Spot spray any weeds, mow and water the lawn as needed; continue through the summer.
- Pay attention to the water needs of lawns, ornamental plants and vegetables, and especially new plants with undeveloped root systems and to outdoor potted plants, which can dry out quickly. Water in the early morning hours to minimize evaporation.
- Pay attention to the water needs of lawns, ornamental plants and vegetables, and especially new plants with undeveloped root systems and to outdoor potted plants, which can dry out quickly. Water in the early morning hours to minimize evaporation.
- Prune dead or broken branches of trees and shrubs; avoid major pruning during the heat of summer.
- Continue to check ornamentals, flowers, and vegetables for aphids and spider mites.
- Inspect broadleaf evergreen shrubs for scale insects, and treat as necessary.
- Watch for lace bugs on azaleas, pyracantha and lantana.
- Fertilize hanging baskets and other container plants regularly.
- To reduce mosquito pests, check house gutters and any containers for standing water.
To begin your next project, schedule a phone consultation!
If you would like to work with your existing designer, simply fill in their name in the “Project Details” section.
by Emily Vogler | Apr 19, 2022
There are 2 key parts to prepping you plants for spring: fertilization and acclimating plants to the outdoors.
Fertilization
- Start fertilizing houseplants about 8 weeks before the last expected spring frost. Here in Nashville, that’s mid-late April. The first few fertilizer applications should be made at half the recommended strength. Help acclimate your plant slowly to receive fertilizer again!
- Most houseplant fertilizers contain a mixture of both macro- and micronutrients.
- The three primary macronutrients, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, found in a container of fertilizer are listed as a ratio on the front of the bottle or bag. Called the N-P-K ratio, these numbers tell you the percentage of each of those nutrients inside the container.
- Some of our favorite fertilizers are Monty’s All Purpose and Good Dirt Plant Food, These products are great for most general houseplant applications and can easily be diluted in a watering can. Feeding your plants will help you replace the minerals and nutrients that are lacking in your potting soil.
Acclimating
- When you take a plant from its indoor environment and place it outside suddenly, the plant can easily become stressed as a result of shock. Do this gradually, and your plants will love you for it!
- You shouldn’t place any houseplant in direct sunlight outdoors. Instead, seek out a nicely shaded area, perhaps your patio or under a tree, and allow your plants to take in the fresh air for a few hours each day. Then gradually move them to an area allowing a little sunshine and slowly increase their time outdoors, even leaving them out all day. After a couple weeks, the houseplants should be well adapted to their outdoor setting to remain throughout summer.
- Outside temperatures can vary greatly from indoors as well, and since the majority of houseplants originate from tropical-like regions, they cannot tolerate cold temperatures or anything below 55 F.
- You may also be dealing with pests. Inside, houseplants are not typically bothered by insects or other pests so much as they are outdoors. Become familiar with some of the more common insects pests so you’ll be better prepared at fighting them off.
- Bi-weekly preventative Neem oil applications will help deter any pests from making your plants a home.
