Seasonal Maintenance Guide
- Prune Japanese maples before leaf emergence (early April)
- Enjoy dogwood and azalea blooms
- Fertilize acid-loving plants after blooming
- Check water features after winter and restart pumps
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture before heat arrives
- Divide groundcovers and perennials as needed
- Water deeply during hot, humid periods
- Monitor for leaf scorch on maples and provide shade
- Control deer browsing with fencing or repellents
- Maintain water features and manage algae growth
- Prune bamboo to control size and spread
- Keep pathways clear and gravel patterns maintained
- Enjoy spectacular maple and dogwood fall color (mid-October peak)
- Plant new trees and shrubs before winter
- Remove fallen leaves from ponds and water features
- Reduce watering as temperatures moderate
- Rake gravel areas and refresh meditation spaces
- Prepare water features for occasional winter freezes
- Appreciate evergreen structure during mild periods
- Plan spring improvements and visit gardens for inspiration
- Prune deciduous trees and shrubs while dormant
- Protect water features during hard freezes
- Monitor for winter animal damage
- Enjoy winter garden access during Tennessee's mild spells