East Hampton - In spite of the recent snow, spring is on its way and with it, the necessity of preparing your yard for the growing season. There are however, some common pitfalls to avoid for both the health of your trees and gardens, as well as, the health of your wallet.

Over-Planting
Planting can be tricky, remember that while your beds may look a bit sparse at first, plants will grow and fill-in the spaces. Over-planting can stretch resources and limit plants ability to thrive. When plants are placed too closely, insects and disease can move easily between plants and beds. Over-planting can also be costly in terms of material and labor.

Over-Mulching
Too much mulch can restrict both air and water movement within plant beds. Mulch can also harbor disease and insects, including deer ticks. Mulches with large chunks of wood are particularly attractive to ticks. Mulch can also be expensive. Generally speaking, beds only require about an inch or two for coverage and protection.

Over-Watering
Everything needs water and the impulse may lead to over-watering. Too much water can rinse the soil of nutrients, thereby making it sterile. Also, too much water will saturate the root zones, limiting the roots gas and air exchange ability. Moreover, bacteria and many other pathogens prefer wet, dark places; add warmth and your plant beds are the perfect disease incubators. Research your plants water needs, use appropriate water delivery systems and adjust watering according to the weather.

An example of just a little too much fertilizer.

Over-Fertilizing
Fertilizer should be used judiciously. Aside from being costly, over-fertilizing can cause visual burns on leaves and propagate insect blooms. Over-fertilizing can also become an environmental concern. Research your plants needs and adhere to a schedule when fertilizing, research organic methods for feeding your plants and trees. A small household compost may be exactly what you need, coffee grounds, egg shells and left-over greens can be easily added to your beds for optimal feeding.

Over-Pruning
Pruning, while pleasing to the eye and generally healthy for trees and plants can be over-done. Over-pruning can be disfiguring, it can lead to malnutrition and may leave plants and trees open to disease. Eventually these can all lead to costly plant repairs. When pruning, err on the side of caution, you can always cut more later. Research the pruning needs of your trees and plants.