Planting Techniques - How to Create an Impressionist Landscape

Creating a beautiful impressionist landscape can be a challenge. Here are some planting techniques to help you get started.

Preparing Soil for Planting

Prepping the soil for planting helps ensure your plants thrive. Here are some tips to get you started:

Benefits of Preparing Soil for Planting

• Improves nutrient absorption
• Reduces compaction
• Prevents weed growth
• Increases water infiltration

Best Practices

• Give the soil a good mix with your hoe or tiller, loosening it for better air, water, and nutrient absorption.
• If the moisture level is low, add organic matter and water to the soil.
• Add the appropriate fertilizer for the plants new or existing plants.
• Cover beds with a light layer of mulch to keep weeds at bay and help retain moisture.

Pros Cons of Preparing Soil Properly

• Pros: Improved plant health, nutrient absorption, easier soil management
• Cons: Time consuming, added expense for organic matter/fertilizer, occasional weed growth

Case Studies

Consider these two case studies of different approaches to prep soil for planting to understand the importance of doing it properly:

Case Study 1: John was in a rush to get his garden planted and didn't take the time to properly prepare the soil. He didn't cultivate or add organic matter, and he didn't add fertilizer. He planted the vegetables but they struggled to grow in the hard soil, and he ended up with a much smaller harvest than he expected.

Case Study 2: Sarah carefully prepared her soil for planting. She loosened the soil with a hoe, added organic matter and fertilizer, and mulched the beds. Her plants grew vigorously and she ended up with a bumper crop of vegetables.

Planting Trees: Selection and Care

Creating an Impressionist landscape with trees is a great way to make your garden look stunning. Here is what to consider for planting trees:

Types of Trees to Plant

• Evergreen trees: Great for privacy and providing year-round foliage
• Deciduous trees: Can provide shade in the summer and expose warm sun in the winter
• Fruit trees: Can provide shade and tasty, seasonal bounty
• Flowering trees: Can provide beautiful colour and texture

Tips For Planting Trees

• Dig holes twice the size of the roots
• Properly staking and supporting the tree helps protect it from winds
• Fertilize your tree with a slow-release tree fertilizer in spring and fall
• Water your tree every week unless the weather has been consistently rainy

Pros Cons of Planting Trees

• Pros: Increased curb appeal, added privacy, added shade, and fruit production
• Cons: Expense, time consuming, and trees can require periodic trimming

Case Studies

Take a look at these two case studies to understand the importance of proper tree selection and care for an Impressionist landscape:

Case Study 1: John wanted to add shade to his garden, so he bought a large, fast-growing tree. He didn't stake it properly, and it was easily blown over in a wind storm. The tree was destroyed and John had to start all over.

Case Study 2: Sarah wanted to add shade and colour to her garden, so she thoughtfully selected a medium-sized flowering tree. She made sure to properly stake the tree, and she fertilizes and waters it regularly. Her tree is doing well and provides lovely blooms and shade.

Edible Landscaping: Growing Fruits Vegetables

Growing fruits and vegetables in an Impressionist landscape can be a great way to enjoy both aesthetics and nutrition. Here are some tips to get you started:

Benefits of Edible Landscaping

• Easy access to healthy, organic foods
• Fewer trips to store/farmer's market
• Aesthetically pleasing
• Reduce food waste, as you can use all fresh vegetables

Best Practices

• Research which fruits and vegetables are best for your climate/growing season.
• Ensure the soil is in good condition by preparing it properly with organic matter and fertilizer.
• Water and fertilize plants regularly.
• Provide enough room for root development.

Pros Cons of Edible Landscaping

• Pros: Easier access to healthy organic food, reduced trips to store/farmer's market, aesthetically pleasing, reduce food waste
• Cons: Time consuming, can be labour intensive, may require additional cost, may attract pests

Case Studies

Take a look at these two case studies to understand the benefits of planting fruits and vegetables in an Impressionist landscape:

Case Study 1: John planted tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers in his Impressionist garden. He was easily able to harvest the vegetables for salads, juice, and other dishes. His family enjoyed the fresh produce and he was able to reduce trips to the store for healthy, organic food.

Case Study 2: Sarah planted blueberries, grapes, and apples in her Impressionist garden. She was able to harvest the fruits and make jams, juices, pies, and cobblers. Her family enjoyed the treats and she was able to reduce trips to the farmer's market for local fruits.

Container Gardening for Small Spaces

Container gardening is great for small spaces or people who just want to plant a few plants here and there. Here are some tips to get you started:

Benefits of Container Gardening for Small Spaces

• Can fit almost anywhere - patios, stairs, decks, roofs, and balconies
• Mobility of planter gardens allows you to move gardens around to areas where plants are more suitable
• Helps maximize growth potential
• Easy to customize soil combinations

Best Practices

• Choose the right container for the right plant size.
• Make sure the container can accommodate drainage.
• Use the right soil. Consider buying a bag of potting mix or soil specifically designed for container gardening.
• Water properly. Check the moisture level in the soil and water when it gets dry.
• Fertilize regularly. Use quality, all-purpose fertilizers.

Pros Cons of Container Gardening

• Pros: Easily customized, mobility, ideal for small spaces, good for maximizing growth potential
• Cons: More expensive than in-ground gardening, requires frequent maintenance, can require a larger space for larger containers

Case Studies

Take a look at these two case studies to understand the benefits of planting fruits and vegetables in an Impressionist landscape:

Case Study 1: John wanted to add some plants to a small balcony. He decided to use container gardening and did some research on the types of plants that would work best. He planted tomatoes, peppers, and herbs and was able to enjoy a few homegrown treats.

Case Study 2: Sarah wanted to add some flowers to a narrow side patio. She chose container gardening and chose flowering plants that added bright, vibrant colour. She often enjoys the relaxing aromas of the planter garden.

Final Notes

Creating an Impressionist landscape requires some patience, knowledge, and planning. But with the right planting techniques, you can achieve a stunning garden. Make sure to properly prepare the soil, select the right trees, and consider edible landscaping and container gardening. With a little bit of effort, you can transform your garden into an Impressionist masterpiece.