For all the newbies out there, I would like to take a little of your time and give you the
keys to educate!
First, important to tell us where you are located? Your Zone? Your level of gardening.
Remember every garden is different! It's important to know these items.
Second, are you willing to learn? Do you want instant Pretty? When I have clients come to
our gardens I give them some pointers. Sunset has a great series of garden books for everyone's
location. Buy one book and save you some headaches. For years I would carry one when going to
nurseries as I found I would ask a question and they couldn't answer me. Or these days there are
apps on plants one can install on their phone. Remember your neighbors on all side may not want to
deal with what is in your yard, save yourself some headaches.
Third, Do you live in the City or County? Each area has their own set of codes and law one should be
aware of. Also the newer areas have Homeowner Associations and they have their own set of rules
so you need to aware of them too. Read your deed and know what it states. Covenants area another must
read for your area.
Fourth, before you dig call it in to know what is up under or around your home.
Fifth, remember Rome wasn't built in a day and any piece of property will take time to develop
to the style you want.
Sixth, know your soil type. Shade or Sun? Is there micro climates on your property?
Seventh, sprinkler system or are you willing to learn how to water?
Eight, City or County's websites in some areas will have their GIS information on properties.
Do check with your local websites for information on properties before you buy or need information
on a given piece of land. It is your responsibility to check out the property not rely on the Sales person.
Make sure proper permits were taken out for work being done on the property. Make sure it wasn't used
for a drug house or other use.
This is a good start to hand you the keys to educate. More can be added
and I hope others will add advice that they have learned to help other.
Dave:
My hopes is that this can be pinned to help folks learn.
