It’s those first signs of spring – the budding trees, blossoming flowers, the long, warm days – that tempt us to jump right into lawn and garden work. However, when it comes to caring for your plants and lawn, sometimes less is more. In fact, overdoing it can cause more harm than good. 

To help you keep your landscape healthy and thriving, here are three common landscaping mistakes we see and how to avoid them.

1. Overwatering

Water is essential for plant health, but too much can be detrimental. Overwatering can suffocate roots, leading to root rot and ultimately harming your plants. Different plants have varying water needs, so instead of following a strict schedule, check the soil—if it’s damp an inch below the surface, hold off on watering. Black-eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta) and Purple Coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea) thrive in well-drained soil and tolerate dry conditions, while Boxwoods (Buxus) can suffer from fungal diseases if overwatered. Adjust your watering routine based on each plant’s needs.

2. Overmowing

A well-manicured lawn looks great, but cutting grass too short can weaken roots and make it more vulnerable to weeds and disease. To maintain a healthy lawn, raise your mower blade higher and remove no more than one-third of the grass height at a time. Kentucky Bluegrass performs best at 2.5 to 3 inches, while Fine Fescue thrives with slightly longer blades for better drought resistance. Perennial Ryegrass also benefits from moderate mowing heights to prevent stress and promote resilience. Keeping grass at the right height strengthens the root system and helps your lawn stay lush.

3. Overpruning

Pruning helps maintain the shape and health of shrubs and bushes, but excessive cutting can weaken plants and stunt growth. A light seasonal trim is beneficial, but over-pruning removes too much foliage, leaving plants stressed and vulnerable. Rhododendrons should be pruned lightly after blooming to encourage healthy growth, while Hydrangeas require variety-specific pruning—cutting back the wrong type too aggressively can prevent blooms. Similarly, Forsythia should only be pruned after flowering to preserve its natural shape. Always research the best pruning practices for each plant to avoid unnecessary damage.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can set your landscape up for a season of healthy growth and vibrant beauty. If you need expert guidance on maintaining your lawn and garden, we’re here to help. Contact us today for professional landscaping advice and services!