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Pick the right plants for your landscape BY METRO Each year, gardening enthusiasts anxiously await the arrival of spring. Spring is a great season to plant new flowers, plants, grasses and trees, making it a popular time of year to spend sunny days out in the yard. Veteran gardeners may know their land- scapes well and be able to pick the right plants on their own. Novices may need a little help as they look to give their landscapes a brand new look. The following are some helpful tips to help homeowners pick the right plants for their landscapes. Evaluate the site A colorful landscape featuring an array of plants and flowers can be eye-catching and add curb appeal to a prop- erty. However, where plants will be planted is a significant variable that must be considered before homeowners choose what to plant. The Center for Ag- riculture, Food, and the Environment at the University of Mas- sachusetts Amherst notes that site evalu- ation is the first step when picking plants. A number of factors must be evaluated, including light availability; water availability; exposure to the elements, includ- ing wind and extreme temperatures; and com- petition from existing vegetation, among other things. Document these variables before picking plants. For example, take note of the area you plan to plant to see if it is full sun or partial shade, and then pick plants whose growing conditions align with those you observe. It's not about looks Aesthetic appeal might be what home- owners most desire from their landscapes, but that appeal is only achieved when the right plants are chosen for a space. If the wrong plants are chosen, they're unlikely to thrive or they could threaten existing vegetation, thus compromising the over- all appeal of the prop- erty. Native plants can often handle local weather conditions, so prioritize natives over more exotic plants whose key attribute is aesthetic appeal. If jaw-dropping aesthetic appeal is your top prior- ity, speak with a local landscaping professional about which natives can provide that without compromising sur- rounding vegetation. Maintenance before planting Maintenance is an- other variable gardeners must consider. Newly planted trees may re- quire substantial water- ing until they've fully established their roots, and some homeowners may not have time for that. In addition, cer- tain plants may require a considerable amount of pruning in order to create and maintain the look homeowners desire. Individuals must be willing to invest the time and effort neces- sary to maintain new plantings that require such diligence. If not, look for plants that don't require much mainte- nance while keeping in mind that even low- maintenance plants still require some effort and attention. Consider local wildlife If your lawn is rou- tinely visited by local wildlife, then purchase plants that won't look like a meal to these welcome, if uninvited, guests. For example, if you routinely see deer lounging around in your backyard, look for deer-resistant plants. This is a good way to protect your invest- ment, of both time and money, and ensure minimal wildlife traf- fic through your newly landscaped yard. Spring gardens are awe-inspiring, espe- cially when homeown- ers embrace various strategies for successful planting. 21 th 2023 March 5, June 25 & September 24 March 3, June 23 & September 22 Sunday BANG Readership (print + e-Edition) 664,100* H8 BAY AREA NEWS GROUP 001 Homes | Advertising Section