Low-maintenance flowers we recommend include daylilies, black-eyed Susans, and ornamental grasses. Native plants are also great for local conditions.

Think about sunlight exposure, soil quality, and the mature size of plants when planning a flowerbed creation. You should try to group plants with similar water and sunlight needs.

Involves removing debris, incorporating organic matter, and ensuring proper drainage. Soil tests help determine the need for changes.

Choose plants with various bloom times, ensuring there's something in bloom throughout the growing season. Deadheading spent flowers also encourages additional blooms.

A layer of mulch helps to suppress weeds. Regular weeding and landscape fabric can also prevent weed growth.

Organic mulches such as bark chips and shredded leaves add nutrients to soil as they decompose. Non-organic mulches like gravel offer long-lasting weed control.

A 2–4-inch layer of mulch is perfect. Do not pile up mulch against stems to prevent moisture-related issues.

Should be applied in the spring to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds. You should also replenish mulch in the fall to insulate plants during winter.

Absolutely. Placing newspaper or cardboard under mulch is an effective method to prevent weed growth. Make sure that adequate moisture reaches the soil.

Mulch should be applied annually or as needed. Try to monitor the thickness and add more if the mulch has decomposed or if weeds are becoming a problem.