Hey everyone! I'm a new homeowner and have decided it's finally time to tackle my garden after letting it sit for two years. I've cleared out some ugly overgrown shrubs and now I'm left with some mulch on top of the soil. I'm planning to plant hydrangeas and rhododendrons, but I'm not sure what to put in the garden beds to prep the soil. Should I be using compost, a planting mix, or something else? I'd really appreciate any tips! Thanks!
5 Answers
One key piece of advice is to test the pH of your soil before getting started. I usually take photos of my garden at different times of the day so I can get better advice when I go to my local garden center. They are super knowledgeable and happy to help, especially if you're buying from a small business!
I've had awesome luck using garden-quality topsoil mixed with aged pine bark. It seems to give the plants a nice boost! Just make sure it's a good quality mix for best results.
I'd recommend getting a good soil conditioner and mixing it into your garden beds. Aim for about 6 inches deep to give your plants a solid foundation to grow in.
Just a heads up, if your garden gets a lot of sun, you might want to be cautious with hydrangeas. We made the mistake of planting some in full sun, and they ended up getting scorched in the summer. If your garden is sunny, consider going for Limelight hydrangeas—they handle the heat better!
Rather than trying to change your existing soil, focus on matching your plants to what's already there. If you need good drainage, do a little water test to see how fast your soil drains. Avoid mixing too many additives into the soil directly, and instead, think about using a biodegradable barrier like cardboard, topped with a layer of mulch. Also, using apps to monitor sunlight changes throughout the year can be super helpful for planning your plants' placement!