• Use native hardwood mulch for best results. A minimum of 2 inches up to 6 inches of mulch is best.
• Compost improves soil texture and water-holding capacity, as well as adding nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.
• Choose a variety of plants that will add interest to your garden year-round. For example, a Mexican plum has a beautiful silver-purple bark in the fall and possumhaw holly has beautiful bark and berries.
• Give your plants enough growing room. Overly close plant spacing will cause problems in the future when plants reach full size.
• Plant trees to help lower your electricity and water bills. Trees shade your home and your yard. Consider planting trees on the west or southwest side of your home for maximum benefit.
• Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses in your shrub beds to save water.

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