Seasonal Maintenance Guide
- Remove winter debris from ferns and evergreens
- Cut back ornamental grasses to 4-6 inches in March
- Apply slow-release fertilizer to container plants
- Check drainage systems after heavy winter rains
- Divide overgrown ferns every 3-4 years
- Water new plantings weekly in western Oregon, twice weekly in eastern regions
- Allow established native plants to rely on deep watering every 2-3 weeks
- Trim grass seed heads by mid-July if desired
- Monitor ferns for slug damage in western Oregon, hand-pick pests
- Refresh gravel mulch if needed
- Best time to plant in western Oregon before winter rains
- Leave ornamental grasses standing for winter structure
- Clean gutters and drainage systems before rainy season
- Apply mulch around sensitive plants
- Reduce watering as autumn rains begin
- Enjoy winter evergreen structure and fern resilience
- Allow natural rainfall to water established plants
- Brush heavy snow off evergreen branches if necessary
- Plan spring additions during indoor time
- Minimal maintenance required during rainy season