By Blake Jackson
As 2024 comes to an end and we look forward to 2025, gardening enthusiasts can make resolutions that will enhance their gardening success in the year ahead. Focus on soil health, plant selection, and pest management, as these are the core aspects of successful gardening.
Soil serves as the foundation for all plant growth, yet it is often underappreciated and mismanaged. To start 2025 strong, resolve to improve your soil quality. A good soil structure, with sufficient pore space, is essential for plant health.
Adding organic matter, like compost, can significantly improve soil quality. Tilling soil before planting and core aerifying turf areas are effective methods to reduce compaction.
Soil compaction limits pore space, which restricts air and water movement, causing plants to struggle.
The principle of "match the plant to the site" is crucial for ensuring plants thrive. Plants placed in the wrong location are more likely to experience stress and poor performance. Begin by considering the plant’s hardiness zone.
In Wisconsin, for example, zones range from USDA Zone 6a along the Lake Michigan shoreline to Zone 3a in some northern areas, with most of the state falling within Zones 4 and 5. Whenever possible, choose plants that are grown locally to ensure they are well-suited to the area.
Other site factors, such as sunlight exposure (full sun, partial sun, or shade), soil drainage, fertility, and wind exposure, should also be considered when selecting plants. Once these factors align, ensure the plant fits aesthetically within the landscape.
Insect pests, diseases, and other plant issues are inevitable, so it’s essential to know how to handle them. The Ask a Gardening Question website is available 24/7 to assist with plant care.
Additionally, researching the common pests and diseases that affect specific plants can help you prevent issues before they arise, often through resistant plant varieties or proper cultural practices.
Before applying any pesticides, always identify the root cause of the problem. Misidentifying a disease as an insect infestation can lead to ineffective treatments.
Always explore multiple management options, including non-chemical solutions, and read pesticide labels carefully before use.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-johnbraid
Categories: Wisconsin, Crops