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Overfertilizing and Overwatering: Fertilizer must be
spread evenly and in the right quantities. Always check the
guidelines for the plant you are fertilizing. More fertilizer
does not equate to faster and better growth. Excess fertilizer
spilled on lawns and plants should be immediately redistributed
to protect against burning.
Watering
should also be applied evenly and not excessively. Overwatering
stresses a plant's system, which makes it difficult for the
plant to take up fluid and results in dieback.
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This lawn shows burn spots due to overfertilization. |
Breaking Municipal Rules: When building decks, fences, in-ground
pools, ponds and sheds, homeowners should follow local bylaws
and obtain the necessary permits beforehand. It's a common
error for gardeners to plant outside their property boundaries
and encroach onto city or flood plain land without obtaining
the necessary permits.
Cultivating Invasive Plants: Gardeners should be concerned
about invasive-plant cultivation on their property and should
try to contain it. These plants spread quickly at the risk
of non-invasive ones and can affect neighboring yards. Some
examples of invasive plants include Norway maple (Acer platanoides),
periwinkle (Vinca minor), mint (Mentha), creeping Jennie (Lysimachia
nummularia), English ivy (Hedera helix) and ribbon grass (Phalaris
arundinacea).
Pesticide Dangers: There are pesticide bans in effect
in many localities across North America. Where permitted,
the use of pesticides to eliminate bad bugs and plants can
also harm beneficial bugs, plants and aquatic life.
Plants that Threaten Pets and Children: These are often innocently
overlooked, but the toxicity of plants should be considered
when populating your landscape. Some to avoid include castor
bean (Ricinus communis), foxglove (Digitalis purpurea), lily
of the valley (Convallaria majalis) and spurge-laurel (Daphne
laureola). All present a poisoning threat to children, animals
or both.
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