COCHRANE— For those looking to spruce up their yards this spring all it takes a spade, dedication and patience.
OnGrowing Works Ltd. landscape supervisor and horticulturalist Brett Desjardins said landscaping a yard can be as big or as small as a task as you choose.
“If you just start with a small corner of the yard and just one little bed you gain a bit of confidence and a bit of momentum to work up to doing your whole yard,” Desjardins said.
Landscaping can be a fun activity, he said, because if a plant dies a gardener can try again next year, or plant something new.
“You shouldn’t be afraid of making too many mistakes,” Desjardins said, adding that plants can always be relocated if needed.
For those looking to water their green thumb, Desjardins said it is best to start small and work up so one does not get overwhelmed.
Planting as much native material as possible can help ensure landscaping projects are able to take root and blossom into a paradise.
“Those are the ones that always seem to do the best, are the longest-lived and best adapted to survive our climates,” Desjardins said. “Especially here in Calgary and Cochrane with the Chinooks it’s a very difficult climate to go through.”
Foraging for native plants to add to a garden can be an enjoyable experience, he said, adding that springtime offers a great opportunity to find new additions for the yard.
“If you’re just a little backyard in the city it’s nice to throw in some flowers,” Desjardins said. He recommends spring crocus or prairie crocus. “It’s still pretty brown [outside]. It’s nice to see these little purple flowers poking their heads out of the ground.”
Another favourite for mid-season summer flowers is the edible wild bergamot that adds bright pops of colour to gardens, Desjardins said. The flower attracts bees and for some lucky gardeners even draws hummingbirds into the yard.
Desjardins noted that people have become increasingly interested in growing their own food.
At OnGrowing Works has seen an increased demand from gardeners looking for raised bed planter boxes that to help people grow their own vegetables. They have also planted berry bushes during landscaping projects.
“Trying to incorporate food into the yard is a big trend and I think people are starting to catch on be a little more water-wise when it comes to what kind of plants they put in their yard," Desjardins said.
Desjardins said that people can also think of their yard as a “safe-have” and create a space for insects and animals to come and enjoy as well.
The more diverse of a landscape created aids in promoting a healthier ecosystem, he said, encouraging gardeners to dedicate whatever space they can to support animals in the areas.
“Think of the yard in the grander scheme of things and at least dedicate a small part of the yard to putting a little beehive house, or bat house or different things like that,” Desjardins said. “We can all do our part to make the world a better place.”
