In the United States, the Lowcountry refers to the beautiful South Carolinian coastline. It may seem like a given that lawns and gardens in this idyllic climate are easy to cultivate, but there are challenges. Landscape experts have found tried-and-true strategies that can be implemented at home for enviable gardens and a healthy, hardy lawn.
Want lush landscaping in the Lowcountry?
Pay heed to these tips:
It’s all about irrigation.
Never underestimate the importance of good drainage and irrigation in this region; plants that are poorly irrigated can become flooded and rot before ever poking through the surface of the soil. Give your lawns a fighting chance and prevent runoff with soil that is well-drained and free from harsh chemicals or hard minerals. Also, proper drainage prevents overwatering which is not good for your plants – or your utility costs.
Start with the soil.
A great lawn and garden start with good soil; check the quality of your soil with a simple, do-it-yourself testing kit, available at most home and garden retailers. Lowcountry soil tends to be sandy along the coast and dense, clay-like inland; balance this with quality organic fertilizer and additives.
Watch the water.
A common mistake that many make in this region is to over-water their lawns and beds. The humidity in the air naturally adds moisture to the soil, which can take time to absorb. Less-frequent watering allows ample time for absorption, while also nurturing a strong root system for lawns, foliage, and plants.
Throw some shade.
Provide some shade from the extreme heat and sun of this region during extreme summer weather, but make sure that your lawn gets a full six hours of sunlight each day. If you choose shade-tolerant varieties of turf, plan on around four hours daily for best results.
Poke a few holes.
Take the time to aerate your lawn and beds periodically for optimal results. Occasional aeration encourages growth and improves drainage, which both foster thick, healthy growth in this often-hot and humid climate.
Make the right choice.
Choose carefully the right grass for your property St. Augustine is easy to care for and resilient to shady spots. However, Centipede grass is most-common in this region, easy to care for, and perfect in sunny spots and spaces. Other high-end turf options include Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass, which require a bit more attention to thrive but that produce lawns worth the extra-effort.
Ensure lush greenspaces and impeccable lawns and hire an expert landscape services company in Charleston for Lowcountry landscaping solutions for your property. For all of your other planting projects, use these tips to maintain healthy, hardy foliage and flora in the distinct climate of this region.