Avoid These Landscaping Mistakes on Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard landscaping can be tricky. The island's salty air, strong winds, and sandy soil make it tough for plants to grow. Many people make simple mistakes that hurt their yards. Avoid these errors to keep your outdoor space green and thriving.

1. Skipping Soil Prep

Martha’s Vineyard has sandy soil. It drains fast but lacks nutrients. Plants struggle to grow in poor soil. Adding compost or organic matter helps. It holds moisture and gives plants the food they need. Good soil makes a big difference.

2. Choosing the Wrong Plants

Not all plants can handle the island's weather. Some need rich soil, while others can’t handle the salty breeze. Using native plants is smarter. They are used to the conditions and need less care. Native flowers, shrubs, and trees grow stronger and last longer.

3. Planting Too Close Together

Plants need space. Many people plant too close together. This leads to overcrowding, weak growth, and disease. Overgrown plants block sunlight and airflow. Spacing plants properly lets them grow strong and healthy.

4. Forgetting About Water

The island gets dry in summer. Some homeowners rely only on rain, but that’s not enough. A smart watering plan is needed. Drip irrigation works best. It delivers water to the roots and wastes less. Watering deeply but less often keeps plants healthy.

5. Using Too Much Fertilizer

Some people think more fertilizer means better plants. That’s not true. Too much fertilizer can burn roots and harm the soil. It can also wash into ponds and harm wildlife. Using organic fertilizers feeds plants naturally without damage.

6. Ignoring Hardscaping

Paths, patios, and walls should blend with nature. Bright concrete or fake-looking stone can ruin the view. Using natural materials like wood or local stone looks better. A well-planned yard balances plants and hard surfaces.

7. Not Planning for Upkeep

A yard needs care. Some people plant trees and shrubs without thinking about trimming and weeding. Overgrown plants make a yard look messy. Choosing low-care plants helps. Regular mowing, pruning, and mulching keep things in shape.

8. Not Thinking About the Seasons

Yards should look good all year. Many people pick plants that only bloom in summer. In fall and winter, their yards look dull. Mixing evergreens, flowers, and shrubs keeps things colorful all year. A yard should always have something green or blooming.

9. Ignoring Local Wildlife

Deer, rabbits, and other animals love to snack on gardens. Some homeowners forget to protect their plants. Using deer-resistant plants helps. Fences and natural barriers also keep critters away. It’s possible to have a nice yard without feeding the wildlife.

10. Not Getting Help From Experts

Landscaping takes skill. Some projects are too big to handle alone. Hiring skilled landscapers on Martha’s Vineyard saves time and money. Experts know which plants thrive here. They can help design a yard that lasts.

Conclusion

A great yard takes planning and care. Avoiding these mistakes makes a big difference. At Bilzerian Tree and Land Services, we help with land clearing, lawn care, and upkeep. Our team keeps your yard healthy and beautiful all year. Let’s make your outdoor space the best it can be.