Maintenance

As the Maintenance Services Manager here at Green View in Mahomet, I’d like to talk about an aspect of landscaping that often goes overlooked yet plays a crucial role in enhancing the aesthetic value of our homes and neighborhoods - flower bed maintenance.

Amid the recent dry spell in Central Illinois, our teams at Green View have been working tirelessly to ensure the optimal health and appearance of your gardens. Despite the challenging weather conditions, our dedication to maintaining the lushness and vibrancy of your outdoor spaces remains unwavering. Our workers strive to give you the low-maintenance, stunning landscape you have always wanted.

First, let’s delve into why flower bed maintenance is crucial. A well-maintained flower bed is an attractive feature and a positive for the environment. It fosters biodiversity by providing a habitat for various beneficial insects and birds. Well-planned flower beds both maintain and enhance soil health by preventing soil erosion and promoting nutrient cycling. It is important to maintain beds regularly. Beds that go without maintenance risk becoming overgrown and losing their aesthetic value. However, maintaining a flower bed, particularly during drought-like conditions, requires a blend of science, art, and patience.

Central Illinois is currently grappling with a dry period, creating several challenges for flower bed maintenance. Dry conditions cause soil to lose its moisture quickly, leading to plant stress and ultimately affecting its growth and flowering. Nevertheless, at Green View, we are equipped to tackle these issues head-on with our vast experience and innovative practices.

While it might seem simple, there's an art to watering, particularly in dry conditions. Overwatering can be just as detrimental as underwatering. It's about maintaining a balance. We've adopted drip irrigation systems, which allow water to infiltrate the soil slowly, reaching the root zone effectively and reducing water wastage. Moreover, we recommend watering early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation. Checking the soil for adequate moisture is the best way to evaluate your watering practices. Probe 2” into the soil; if there is no moisture it is time to water. If the soil is wet, you can wait until the next day to check again if more watering is necessary.

Mulch is a gardener's best friend in times of drought. By providing a protective layer on top of the soil, mulch significantly reduces evaporation, retains moisture, and keeps the plant roots cool. Our teams ensure that your flower beds are adequately mulched with organic matter like straw, compost, or shredded bark. This not only conserves water but also contributes to the soil's nutrient content. Additionally, mulch breaks down into organic matter that will help to retain moisture at a microscopic level.

The choice of plants plays a pivotal role in withstanding dry conditions. We always encourage the use of native or drought-resistant plants that are accustomed to the local climate. Plants like Butterfly Weed, Coneflower, Black-eyed Susan, Sage, Coreopsis, and Sedum are not only beautiful but also resilient to drought conditions.

Regular weeding, pruning, and pest control are critical to maintaining a healthy flower bed. At Green View, our experienced crew knows how to manage these tasks efficiently without causing harm to the plants or the environment. Applying a low-nitrogen, slow-release fertilizer with added iron can help to keep your plants fertile and blooming through a drought. Green View only uses the highest quality and safest products when performing soil amendments.

One of the primary reasons I’ve grown to love my job here at Green View is the satisfaction of seeing a well-maintained flower bed blooming in all its glory. The rush of colors, the burst of life, and the sense of peace it brings can't be overstated. It’s more than just beautification; it’s about creating sustainable, healthy spaces where both humans and nature can thrive.

Remember a well-maintained flower bed can elevate your home’s charm and character. And while the dry conditions in Central Illinois may present some challenges, we are equipped to help you navigate them, ensuring that your flower beds continue to blossom and provide joy.

As we continue to address the unique maintenance needs of your landscapes during this dry spell, I invite you to reach out to us with your questions and concerns. Our team in Bloomington, IL, Peoria, IL, Champaign, IL, or Springfield, IL, is always here to help ensure your outdoor spaces remain extraordinary.

Happy gardening!